As we approach the dawn of the new year, we're thrilled to invite you to a special event celebrating renewal, intention, and the ancient practice of yoga: 108 Sun Salutations.

Understanding Sun Salutations

Sun Salutations are a fundamental part of yoga. Known as Surya Namaskar in Sanskrit, these sequences are a beautiful union of movement, breath, and mindfulness. They pay homage to the sun and its life-giving energy.

The benefits range from increasing flexibility and strength to fostering mental clarity and emotional balance.

You will come across Sun Salutations in Vinyasa and Hatha yoga classes. The teacher will use them as warm-ups, flow sections, or even to teach a key principle, like lengthening the hamstrings.

The Mystical Number 108

Now, why 108?

This number holds immense significance in various cultures and disciplines. In yoga philosophy, it represents the completeness of existence. From the 108 Upanishads to the 108 energy lines converging to form the heart chakra, the number 108 is woven into the fabric of yoga's ancient wisdom. Here are some more key places to find 108:

• 108 sacred sites or pithas in India

• 108 beads in a mala, a string of prayer beads used for meditation

• 108 marma points, which are vital energy points in the body used in Ayurveda

• 108 names of Hindu gods and goddesses

Celebrating the New Year with 108 Sun Salutations

As we embark on a new journey, practising 108 Sun Salutations becomes a symbolic way to welcome the coming year. It's a ritual of letting go of the past, setting intentions for the future, and embracing the present moment with each flowing movement.

By completing 108 rounds of Sun Salutations, we honour the transitions, cycles, and possibilities inherent in life, infusing our practice with purpose and gratitude.

Join Us for the New Year's Day Special Class

This January 1st 2024, we are hosting a special yoga class – 108 Sun Salutations from 10 am. Led by Katherine and Abi, this class will be an opportunity to come together as a community and share energy and intentions for the year ahead.

Join us as we move, breathe, and set our intentions together. Whether you're a seasoned practitioner or new to yoga, this event is open to everyone willing to embrace this transformative practice.

You can join in for as much as you want. Complete 10 rounds or go for a total of 108. It's about showing up for yourself and curating your energy.

Preparation and Tips for 108 Sun Salutations

Preparing for 108 Sun Salutations involves more than just physical readiness. Hydrate well, eat lightly, and arrive with an open heart and mind. Pace yourself, listen to your body, and modify the poses to suit your comfort level.

Afterwards, take time for self-care—rest, hydrate, and reflect on the intentions you've set. Allow the experience to resonate within you, guiding your path through the new year.

Herbal teas and light snacks will be available for us to share experiences after our practice.

As the sun rises on a new beginning, let's come together in celebration, honouring the traditions of yoga and the profound significance of 108 Sun Salutations.

Join us on New Year's Day for a transformative movement, mindfulness, and intention-setting journey. Let's welcome the possibilities that lie ahead, united in the practice of yoga and the spirit of community.

Will we see you there?