Welcome to the second blog in our Sun Salutation series, where we will dig deeper into Sun Salutation B. Sun Salutations can be practiced on their own (such as just A, just B, or just C), mixed within a vinyasa class, or a class can be solely Sun Salutations. When done as the latter, Sun Salutation B often follows after several rounds of Sun Salutation A.
Photo by Ivana Cajina on Unsplash
Sun Salutation B is generally viewed as a more advanced version of Sun Salutation A, as it is comprised of nineteen (19 poses), versus the eleven (11) which make up Sun Salutation A. Sun Salutation B also includes poses, such as Chair and Warrior I, which require a strong core foundation and tend to be considered more advanced poses.
The nineteen (19) poses which make up Sun Salutation B are:
Mountain Pose
Chair Pose
Standing Forward Fold
Half-way Lift
Chaturanga
Upward Facing Dog
Downward Facing Dog
Warrior I (Right Side)
Chaturanga
Upward Facing Dog
Downward Facing Dog
Warrior I (Left Side)
Chaturanga
Upward Facing Dog
Downward Facing Dog
Half-way Lift
Standing Forward Fold
Chair Pose
Mountain Pose
Minus Chair Pose, the first few poses may seem familiar, as they are the same as Sun Salutation A. However, it is easy to see where the increased level of difficulty comes into play.
The same variations as mentioned in the Sun Salutation A blog could be incorporated here, along with a few others:
Utilize a physical chair while in Chair Pose
Take your time when transitioning from Downward Facing Dog to Warrior I. Take more than one step, or come to standing first, then step back into Warrior I.
If balance or quad strength is a concern, keep your front leg straight in Warrior I.
A side note that applies not only to Sun Salutations, but also to all yoga practices - when rising up from an inversion (example: Downward Facing Dog to Mountain Pose), rise up slowly, and at a pace comfortable for you. If you stand up too quickly, you may be come dizzy or light-headed, which can lead to falls and injury.
For an additional aromatherapy option, consider adding Orange oil to your Sun Salutation B practice. Orange oil is bright and energizing, much like the sun itself, and can help awaken the senses.
Another oil which is thought to help bring the body in tune with Sun Salutations is Citronella - which is handy if you are doing your Sun Salutations outdoors during peak mosquito season!
Next week we will explore the last series of the Sun Salutations - Sun Salutation C.
-Charlene
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