Happy summer solstice! In some yoga circles, it is traditional to celebrate the changes of seasons—the summer and winter solstice and the vernal and autumnal equinox—by doing 108 Sun Salutations. This practice is most often done in large groups and often as an offering, such as an offering of peace or unity (see The Global Mala Project, which facilitates collective yoga events typically including 108 Sun Salutations).i
What Are Sun Salutations?
Surya Namaskar (Sanskrit for Sun Salutation) is a series of yoga poses done in a continuous, flowing sequence, intended to improve the strength and flexibility of muscles. Sun Salutations are an excellent way for hikers to warm up and stretch their body. You can benefit with just a few rounds before any workout or hike. See below for the classic twelve steps of Surya Namaskar and a variation of the series that you can do without a mat. When on the Camino, I would start each day with a few rounds of half salutations, and I truly believe that they helped prevent injuries.
For a complete cardio workout, challenge yourself to do 108 of them upon the change of seasons.
The Camino Provides 