WHY 108 SUN SALUTES??

In the last decade or so, I have heard many reasons for why we practice 108 Sun Salutations or other prostrations at the Equinoxes. They all seem to intertwine in some way with every thing from Vedic astrology and Hindu myth to the Sanskrit’s alphabet being 54 sounds x 2 to represent each sound in its whole (Shiva and Shakti.) 

The thing that stands out for me, in the many reasons I have been given over the years, is an offering of devotion and means of setting intentions.

The Mala is a beaded bracelet/necklace containing 108 beads. It is often used in prayers, Mantra and other such devotional/intentional practices as a means of keeping count of the repetitions. When we link 108 Sun Salutations or other prostrations into our practice, we become the Mala. The practice is an embodiment of our prayer and Mantra; we are reminded there is no difference between our thoughts, bodies and the Supreme Grace with which we are offering our practice to.

We practice this yogic tradition at the Equinox because it is when light and dark are in even balance. These deeply Sattvic times hold greater potential in reminding us of our synonymous and never unbroken connection to Grace. The Equinox practice is a chance to become deeply aware of where our hearts and devotions lie. Each of the 108 prostrations a reminder our hearts guide our intentions, that lead to our thoughts, which lead to actions, which shape the world you live in.

Noah is the owner of Peg City Yoga in Winnipeg, Canada. Noah is also a 2200 hour graduate of Foothills College of Massage Therapy. He holds a diploma in Fitness and Nutrition as well as a Personal Training Specialist certificate through Can Fit Pro. Noah is accredited with a 200 hour Yoga Teacher Training and Personal Development program and working towards apprenticing with the Canadian Wing Chun Association.