As we approach the Summer Solstice—the longest day of the year and a potent time for renewal—many yogis around the world prepare to take part in the tradition of 108 Sun Salutations. Practicing 108 Sun Salutations in a single session is both a physical feat and a spiritual ritual, rooted in ancient symbolism and modern mindfulness.
In this article, you’ll learn what makes the number 108 so meaningful in yoga, the structure and history of Sun Salutation A, and how to safely prepare, both physically and mentally, for this powerful practice. Whether you’re participating on the Summer Solstice or at another pivotal moment in your life, understanding the deeper meaning behind 108 Sun Salutations can help transform a simple sequence into a moving meditation with profound spiritual resonance.
The meaning and history of Sun Salutations
“Surya Namaskar” translates from Sanskrit as “Sun Salutation.” It’s a series of postures performed in a sequence, traditionally done facing the rising sun.
The practice dates back more than 2,500 years, where it was believed to be a reverent salute to the dawn. Ancient yogis saw the sun not only as a source of light and life, but as a representation of the divine self.
Each posture in the Sun Salutation has a symbolic meaning. The sequence moves in a cyclical fashion, echoing the sun’s journey across the sky. The repetition creates a moving meditation that helps you find stillness through motion.
What are the positions in Sun Salutation A?
While there are multiple versions of Sun Salutations in yoga, Sun Salutation A is a foundational sequence.
Here are the basic positions:
Tadasana (Mountain Pose)
Urdhva Hastasana (Upward Salute)
Uttanasana (Standing Forward Bend)
Ardha Uttanasana (Halfway Lift)
Chaturanga Dandasana (Low Plank)
Urdhva Mukha Svanasana (Upward-Facing Dog)
Adho Mukha Svanasana (Downward-Facing Dog)
Ardha Uttanasana (Halfway Lift)
Uttanasana (Forward Fold)
Urdhva Hastasana (Upward Salute)
Tadasana (Mountain Pose)
Sun Salutation A is commonly practiced in both Ashtanga and Vinyasa yoga flow classes. It builds heat, increases circulation, and helps center the mind.
What is the significance of 108?
You might wonder why the number 108 holds such significance in yogic practices.
In Vedic astronomy, it’s said that 108 Earths fit across the diameter of the Sun; 108 Suns fit between the Earth and the Sun; and 108 Moons fit between the Earth and the Moon.
In numerology, 1 represents unity, 0 represents emptiness or completeness, and 8 represents infinity. Together, 108 symbolizes the wholeness of existence.
In Ayurveda, there are 108 sacred places in the body, known as marma points, where consciousness meets matter. Many traditions consider 108 a bridge between the human and the divine.
In Bhakti yoga, practitioners often chant mantras 108 times using a japa mala. There are also 108 Upanishads, 108 energy lines converging to the heart chakra, and 108 sacred texts in various lineages of Hinduism and Buddhism.
Why do we practice 108 Sun Salutations?
Practicing 108 Sun Salutations combines the sacred geometry of the cosmos with embodied devotion. Beyond the numerology, the benefits of completing 108 rounds are expansive: increased endurance, a sense of emotional catharsis, a clearer mind, and a deepened spiritual connection. Physically, it strengthens the entire body. Mentally, it teaches patience and focus. Spiritually, it offers a profound sense of release and renewal.
The tradition of performing 108 Sun Salutations is typically reserved for seasonal shifts, New Year celebrations, or personal milestones. One of the most common times to practice them is on the summer solstice, a day symbolizing the peak of light and energy in the Northern Hemisphere. It represents completion, renewal, and stepping into a new cycle.
How to prepare for 108 Sun Salutations
If you’re thinking about taking on a 108 Sun Salutation practice, preparation is key. This is an endurance-based experience that requires both physical readiness and mental resilience.
It can take 90 to 120 minutes to complete all 108 rounds, depending on your pace and any modifications you make. The goal isn’t perfection—it’s presence.
Start by preparing the day before:
Hydrate: Drink plenty of water the day before and the morning of.
Fuel mindfully: Eat something light and nourishing—think fruit, oatmeal, or a smoothie.
Rest well: A full night’s sleep will allow your body to recover and give you the energy you need.
Set your intention: Knowing why you’re doing this—whether for healing, transformation, or challenge—will help guide you through it.
Gather your tools: Have a water bottle, a towel, and any necessary props, such as blocks, nearby.
Pace yourself: It’s okay to pause, modify, or skip a round. Listen to your body and stay connected to your breath.
Approach this practice as a ritual, not a race. Giving yourself grace will help you stay grounded throughout the journey.
Try this warm-up before starting your practice
You don’t want to jump into 108 repetitions cold. Prepare your body gently with this warm-up:
Rest in Child’s Pose (Balasana) for a few deep breaths.
Move through 3-5 rounds of Cat-Cow (Marjaryasana-Bitilasana).
Pause in Downward-Facing Dog to activate the back body.
Gently stretch your lower spine with a few breaths in Cobra Pose (Bhujangasana).
These simple movements will help prepare your joints, muscles, and breath.
Can you do a modified version of Sun Salutations?
Absolutely. You can adjust your Sun Salutations to meet your body where it is.
For example:
Drop knees in Chaturanga for less shoulder intensity.
Skip Upward-Facing Dog and stay in Cobra if your back is sensitive.
Take extended breaks in Child’s Pose as needed.
The beauty of yoga is that it’s adaptable. Whether you’re practicing Ashtanga, Hatha, or a slower yoga flow, Sun Salutations can be personalized.
Creative ways to count your Sun Salutations
Keeping track of 108 rounds can be surprisingly challenging.
Here’s one method that works well: Give each student (or yourself) two bowls. One contains 108 mala beads; the other is empty. Each time you complete a round, move one bead. Once all beads have been transferred, you’re done. Bonus: You can use the beads later to make your own mala necklace as a keepsake.
Other ideas:
Group your rounds into 3 sets of 36 and pause for a breath after each set.
Use a clicker or tally counter.
Practice in a group with a designated counter.
Ready to deepen your practice?
Whether you’re preparing for your first 108 or simply looking to explore Sun Salutations in more depth, a teacher training can offer the guidance and support you need.
At East+West, yoga teacher training programs bridge the gap between traditional yoga wisdom and modern technique. Taught by Indian monks and Western practitioners, the curriculum empowers students to explore yoga as a lifelong practice.
If you’re ready to go beyond the mat and into the heart of the practice, learn more at yogaeastwest.com.
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