Sun-salutation in modern time

Glossary definitions and references:

Scientific and Ayurvedic Glossary list for “Sun-salutation in modern time”. This list explains important keywords that occur in this article and links it to the glossary for a better understanding of that concept in the context of Ayurveda and other topics.

1) Yoga:
Yoga is an ancient practice rooted in Indian philosophy, aimed at unifying the mind, body, and spirit. It includes various postures (asanas), breath control (pranayama), and meditation techniques, promoting physical health, emotional stability, and spiritual growth. In modern lifestyles, yoga provides a holistic approach to combat stress and health issues.

2) Surya (Shurya):
Surya refers to the sun in Sanskrit, and is often associated with vitality and energy in various cultures. In the context of Surya Namaskar, it symbolizes reverence towards the sun as a source of life and vitality, and is an integral part of yogic practices, connecting the practitioner with universal energy.

3) Science (Scientific):
Science denotes the systematic study of the structure and behavior of the physical and natural world through observation and experimentation. In the context of yoga and Ayurveda, it refers to the methodologies used to understand the physiological and psychological benefits associated with practices like Surya Namaskar and their impact on health.

4) Pose:
A pose in yoga refers to a specific posture that practitioners hold during their practice. Each yoga pose offers various physical and mental benefits, contributing to flexibility, strength, and balance. In Sun-Salutation, specific poses are executed in a sequence that orchestrates body movement with breath for maximum benefit.

5) Rajasthan:
Rajasthan is a state in northern India known for its rich cultural heritage and diverse landscapes. It is significant in this context as the authors of the article hail from a university in Rajasthan, connecting traditional practices like Ayurveda and yoga to the region’s historical roots in holistic health.

6) India:
India is the birthplace of yoga and Ayurveda, making it a crucial context for understanding these practices. The country's ancient texts and traditions emphasize the importance of wellness and spirituality, highlighting practices like Surya Namaskar, which integrates physical fitness with mental clarity and spiritual awareness.

7) Blood:
Blood is vital for life, responsible for transporting oxygen and nutrients throughout the body. In yoga practice, including Surya Namaskar, improved blood circulation is a key benefit, as it helps enhance overall health and detoxification, contributing to better organ function and vitality, reducing risks associated with cardiovascular diseases.

8) Hand:
The hand is a focus in many yoga poses, symbolizing the connection between body and mind. In Surya Namaskar, hand positions are crucial for balance and achieving various asanas. They also represent action and intention in yoga practices, emphasizing mindfulness in each movement.

9) Disease:
Disease is a broader term encompassing various health issues affecting physical or mental well-being. The article discusses how practices like Surya Namaskar help prevent and manage diseases associated with modern lifestyles, advocating for integrative approaches to wellness rooted in traditional knowledge systems like Ayurveda.

10) Medium:
Medium refers to the level or mode of practice. In the context of yoga, 'medium' can indicate the intensity at which a practice is performed. For instance, practicing Surya Namaskar at a medium pace provides a balance of muscle toning and endurance, essential for holistic fitness.

11) Asana (Ashana):
Asana, meaning 'posture' in Sanskrit, is a fundamental aspect of yoga involving physical positions to enhance flexibility, strength, and balance. Each asana has specific health benefits, and in Surya Namaskar, a sequence of twelve asanas is performed to integrate mind and body effectively during practice.

12) Life:
Life encompasses the existence and experiences of living organisms. In yoga philosophy, nurturing a healthy life is a primary goal. The practices of yoga and Ayurveda aim at prolonging and enhancing life's quality, promoting physical health and spiritual development through mindful habits and routines.

13) Mental health:
Mental health refers to an individual's emotional, psychological, and social well-being. The article highlights how practices like Surya Namaskar can alleviate stress, anxiety, and depression, contributing to improved mental health. Yoga encourages mindfulness, fostering stronger mental resilience and emotional balance in daily life.

14) Ashtanga-namaskara (Astanga-namaskara):
Ashtanga-namaskara, or 'salute with eight parts,' is a specific pose in the Sun Salutation sequence. It involves a series of movements that engage multiple muscle groups, promoting strength and stability as well as enhancing flexibility. This pose reflects the discipline inherent in Ashtanga yoga practices.

15) Depression:
Depression is a common mental health condition characterized by persistent sadness and loss of interest. The article discusses how yoga, including Surya Namaskar, can serve as a complementary tool for relieving symptoms of depression by boosting energy levels and promoting a positive mental state through physical activity.

16) Patanjali:
Patanjali is an ancient Indian sage credited with the compilation of the 'Yoga Sutras', foundational texts for yoga philosophy. His teachings emphasize the importance of disciplined practice and meditation in achieving mental clarity and health, influencing systems of yoga like Hatha and Ashtanga, incorporating practices like Surya Namaskar.

17) Ayurveda (Ayus-veda):
Ayurveda is a traditional Indian system of medicine focused on achieving balance in mind, body, and spirit. The article links Ayurveda with yoga, particularly in their preventive aspects, stressing how both systems can work together to enhance overall health, vitality, and well-being via practices like Surya Namaskar.

18) Ashtanga (Astanga, Ashtan-anga):
Ashtanga refers to an ancient form of yoga emphasizing synchronizing breath and movement through a progressive series of postures. It is notable for its structured sequences, such as Surya Namaskar, which acts as a warm-up and foundational practice, enhancing physical endurance and mental focus in practitioners.

19) Mountain:
Mountain refers to a specific yoga pose (Parvatasana) that symbolizes stability and strength. In the context of Surya Namaskar, this pose encourages grounding and alignment, promoting awareness in the body. It also serves to enhance the body's capability to endure and balance during the practice.

20) Pregnant:
Pregnant signifies the state of carrying a developing fetus. The article provides precautions regarding yoga practice for pregnant women, as certain poses may not be advisable during this time. Understanding the limitations and recommendations can ensure the safety and health of both the mother and the baby.

21) Samadhi:
Samadhi refers to a state of deep meditative consciousness or union with the divine, representing the ultimate goal of yogic practice. It ties the practice of yoga, including Surya Namaskar, to deeper spiritual pursuits, emphasizing the holistic nature of health that incorporates physical and spiritual dimensions.

22) Upasana:
Upasana refers to worship or devotional practices, often involving meditation and rituals. In the context of Surya Namaskar, it signifies the spiritual aspect of yoga, where the physical practice is infused with spiritual intent, connecting practitioners to broader energies and fostering a sense of community and reverence.

23) Anxiety:
Anxiety is a mental health condition characterized by excessive worry or fear. The article discusses how regular practice of yoga, including Surya Namaskar, can alleviate symptoms of anxiety by promoting relaxation, improving mindfulness, and enhancing overall emotional well-being through physical activity and balance.

24) Mantra (Mamtra):
A mantra is a single word or phrase that is repeated during meditation to facilitate focus and intention. In the context of yoga, particularly during Surya Namaskar, mantras serve to align the practitioner’s energy with their intentions, reinforcing the connection to spiritual practices and deepening meditation effects.

25) Sharman (Sarma, Sharma, Sarman):
Sharma is a surname likely indicating one of the authors in the article. It represents not only individual identity but also the lineage and familial ties in Indian culture. In an academic context, the contributions of authors like Sharma reflect the collaborative efforts to advance knowledge on health practices.

26) Prayer:
Prayer refers to a spiritual practice of communicating with a higher power, often involving devotion and gratitude. In the context of yoga, including Surya Namaskar, prayer can enhance the meditation experience and foster a sense of purpose, connecting practitioners to spiritual traditions and community.

27) Hatha:
Hatha refers to a branch of yoga focused on physical postures and breath control. It forms the basis for many yoga practices, including Surya Namaskar, promoting physical fitness and well-being. Hatha yoga emphasizes balance, strength, and flexibility, making it accessible to practitioners of various skill levels.

28) Pulse:
Pulse is the rhythmic expansion and contraction of arteries as blood is pumped by the heart. In yoga practice, monitoring one’s pulse can be indicative of cardiovascular fitness. Surya Namaskar enhances heart health by improving circulation and endurance, ultimately leading to a healthier pulse rate and overall vitality.

29) Death:
Death signifies the cessation of life and is a fundamental aspect of human experience. In Ayurvedic and yogic traditions, awareness of mortality encourages mindfulness and appreciation for life. Practices like Surya Namaskar can help cultivate a healthier lifestyle, fostering longevity and a better quality of life in the face of mortality.

30) Pain:
Pain is an unpleasant sensory and emotional experience often associated with injury or illness. The article highlights how practices like Surya Namaskar can help alleviate various forms of pain by promoting flexibility, strength, and body awareness, contributing to overall wellness and reducing the risk of chronic pain conditions.