Pranamasana, or the Prayer Position, is the first pose in the Sun Salutation sequence. Pranamasana is a prayer position in which the palms are clasped together. Pranam is a Sanskrit term that means “to give homage,” and asana is a position. As a result, the posture is known as Pranamasana.
Pranamasana is a popular manner of welcoming others, particularly elders, seniors, gurus, and guests, in India and many other eastern nations. “Namaste” means “I bow down to the Self in you” in Indian.
The Self, or Jiva, is thought to be in the heart core. As a result, when kneeling down and greeting people, the palms are pulled together, touching one’s own heart. Pranamasana is the name given to this hand move.
When done with feeling, Pranamasana provides a sensation of relaxation and inner calm.
How to Perform Pranamasana (The Prayer Pose)
- Stand tall with your feet together.
- Bring your two hands together, palms meeting at the level of your chest. Take a step forward.
- Breathe normally in. This will provide a sensation of calm.
- This asana is performed at the beginning and finish of the Sun Salutation, also known as Surya Namaskara.
- A specific mantra is also repeated as part of the Sun Salutation practice. The Sun Salutation consists of 12 positions, each performed while singing a specific mantra for the Sun God.
During the first position, say the following mantra: Namaha Mitraya
During the 12th posture, say the following mantra: Namaha Bhaskaraya
Pranamasana Advantages (the Prayer Pose)
In India and many other eastern nations, the most frequent type of greeting is pranamasana.
It is the first and last asana in the Surya Namaskara sequence.
It induces relaxation and focus in preparation for the Surya Namaskara positions.
