You must have heard of the term Sashtanga Namaskara. Have you wondered what is the significance of Sashtanga Namaskara. Did you know there are benefits of Sashtanga Namaskara? Indian mythology says that there are two ways of doing Namaskara. The one we do before our elders as a sign of respect and the other one done before God as a mark of surrendering. The Namaskara done before God is called, Sashtanga Namaskara.
Significance of Sashtanga Namaskara
Our parents have taught us to join our hands in front of any guest or elderly person when we meet them for the first time. The Namaskar is often regarded as a warm welcome. It is a sign of respect and to initiate a conversation. This Namaskar is very different from what we offer to God.
Benefits of Sashtanga Namaskara
Do you recall people completely lying on the ground in temples? That is called Sashtanga Namaskar. The significance of Sashtanga Namaskara is to entirely devote and surrender yourself to God. Sashtanga means ‘Eight parts’, Chest, Head, Mind, Eyes, Speech, Hands, Feet and Ears. While praying to God, knowingly or unknowingly, you devote these eight parts to God. Physically, it can be a form of exercise, an excellent way to stretch your body.
The Eight Parts
The significance of Sashtanga Namaskara also lies in our complete surrender. While we lie on the ground, we knowingly surrender Chest, Head, Hands, Feet and Ears to God. You must be wondering on how do you devote the Mind, Eyes and Speech to God? While worshipping, your mind visualizes God’s image in front of your eyes with your mouth continuously chant God’s prayers. This is how you surrender to God while doing Sashtanga Namaskar.
Embrace God’s Devotion – Significance of Sashtanga Namaskara
After doing this, you will feel utterly blessed and nourished. Furthermore, Sashtanga Namaskara is a good exercise and can be done by both male and female (except women in certain conditions like pregnancy as so on).