Sun Meditation and health

Life exists on planet earth because of the sun. Worshipping the sun has been a daily practice in many cultures. Surya Namaskar (Sun Salutations), Sandhya Vandanam (worshipping the sun at sunrise and sunset) is very auspicious and good for the body and the mind. The sages and preceptors have advised us to meditate during the morning and evening. The ‘Sun Meditation’ guided by Sri Sri Ravi Shankar is very simple, yet very soothing and energises the whole body and calms the mind. This meditation is done in the morning when the sun is rising.

Enjoy the full glory of the sun and experience deeper meditation.

The Benefits of Light

Scientists know that bright light stimulates the production of serotonin which helps maintain a positive mood. Too little serotonin causes depression and lack of energy.

Some people suffer from Seasonal Affective Disorder during winter because they don’t get enough sunlight. A cure for SAD is to use a bright light box for several minutes each day.

To practice sun meditation, beginners should start by looking at the rising sun early in the morning. You can also look at the setting sun, but it is not as effective as at sunrise because the energy is decreasing.

If you feel any trouble gazing directly at the sun, you should focus your gaze a short distance above the sun. Try not to blink, but if you feel discomfort, blink several times, then start again. If you do this three of four times, your resistance power will be increased and it will be easy to look at the sun. Then, we can gradually increase the time that we gaze at the sun.

Beginners should start looking each day for a short period, then day by day increase the amount of time so that the eyes can gradually adapt without any harm. It is very important to maintain regular practice, as it will allow your eyes to adapt properly. Some people may experience problems in the first few days, sometimes headaches or burning sensations in the eyes, or a 'sunspot' that affects your vision. This is quite normal, and the only way to overcome these problems is to continue practising. It is similar to any physical exertion that may cause stiffness or pain; it does not last long, and it is best removed by continuing the exercise.