The Summer Solstice occurs once a year and marks the first day of summer as the longest day of the year. Since 2015, International Day of Yoga has been celebrated around the world on the same day, June 21. On this day, yogis around the world celebrate the Summer Solstice by practicing the Sun Salutations sequence. Traditionally, many yogis practice 108 Sun Salutations which is usually done at sunrise to greet the sun as it rises. Don’t worry though- you don’t have to practice 108 times to participate! 1-10 repetitions on each side (left and right) is more than enough— especially if you are new to yoga or the Sun Salutations Sequence! You could practice this sequence at sunrise or anytime throughout the day.
Below is a breakdown of what the sequence looks like. It consists of 12 poses (some repeated). Practice these poses in sequence slowly on both left and right sides (4-5 breaths per pose) to begin and then pick up speed (less breaths per pose) as you repeat the sequence and start to move faster and faster.
Now let’s put it all together! Below is a Guided Sun Salutations/Surya Namaskara Sequence to practice with. The key is to use your breath to transition into each pose. No poses are held for more than half a breath (either inhale or exhale).
Enjoy performing this sequence to celebrate the Summer Solstice and International Day of Yoga! Performing this sequence is also a traditional way celebrate the Winter Solstice and Springs and Fall Equinoxes! It’s a great sequence to practice daily as it only takes a few minutes to do several rounds— great to practice first thing in the morning or if you’re short on time! You can also use this sequence as a warm up to your personal yoga practice (you will likely come across it in yoga classes taught in studios) so it is beneficial to learn how to perform.
Each pose of this sequence may not be accessible to every body and the transitions of this sequence can seem difficult. It’s important to learn how to practice this sequence for your body- this may include modifications or alternative poses.
Want to learn more about the sequence and how to perform it on your own? Enroll in our Yoga Student Training Courses: The Ultimate Beginners Guide to Yoga Online Course or The Ultimate Sun Salutations Online Course (use coupon code IDY108 for 45% off!)