Surya Namaskar: Myth, Mantra, and Movement
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In this conversation, Katja Patel explores the practice of Surya Namaskar, or Salute to the Sun, emphasising its significance in yoga and its connection to the myth of Hanuman. She discusses the sequence's adaptability, its benefits for the body and mind, and the incorporation of mantras to enhance the practice. The conversation concludes with practical guidance for practitioners and reflections on the deeper meaning of Surya Namaskar as a ritual of gratitude and reconnection.
Several listeners have reached out saying this podcast put words to something they’ve been feeling for a while.
If that’s you too, I’ve created a Stress Less Workshop with simple practices to help you feel more settled and supported day to day.
Practicing yoga at home can feel challenging without guidance.
Surya Namaskar is a simple and adaptable sequence.
The myth of Hanuman illustrates the origins of Surya Namaskar.
Surya Namaskar is a complete practice involving movement, meditation, and breath.
The sequence can support all three doshas in Ayurveda.
Mantras can enhance the practice of Surya Namaskar.
Even a few rounds of Surya Namaskar can shift your state of being.
Practising facing east can enhance the experience.
Surya Namaskar is about rhythm, ritual, and reconnection.
You just need a willingness to show up for your practice.
"It's simple, it's adaptable and grounding."
"When in doubt, practice Surya Namaskar."
"Each pose is linked to the breath."
00:00 Introduction to Surya Namaskar
01:28 The Myth of Hanuman
03:20 Understanding Surya Namaskar
04:42 The Significance of the Sun
05:56 The Complete Practice of Surya Namaskar
06:58 Incorporating Mantras into Practice
10:21 Exploring Bija Mantras
12:23 Practical Guidance for Practice
13:39 Final Thoughts on Surya Namaskar
Surya Namaskar, yoga, Hanuman, mantras, meditation, wellness, Ayurveda, breath, practice, ritual
Includes a free printable chart and audio mantra support.
Whether you’re just getting started or looking for a way to return to your mat, this episode will guide you back—one breath at a time.
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Katja Patel is a yoga teacher, teacher mentor, and Ayurveda consultant with over 25 years of experience helping women come back into rhythm — in their bodies, their days, and their lives.
Her work focuses on restoring steadiness through daily rhythms that support digestion, sleep, energy, and the nervous system — rather than chasing quick fixes or wellness trends.
After navigating scoliosis and chronic pain herself, Katja understands what it means to live in a body that feels out of sync — and how yoga and Ayurveda, when taught simply and applied wisely, can rebuild resilience, confidence, and trust in the body again.
Through her courses, workshops, and writing, she helps women stop trying to “do everything right” and instead learn how to listen, adjust, and return the rhythms their body has been asking for all along.
You can begin with her free guide, 5 Ayurvedic Shifts from Scattered to Steady, or explore her signature workshop Stress Less, Live More, where she teaches the rhythm-based approach to restoring sleep, digestion, and nervous system balance.