Surya Namaskara, also known as the Sun Salutation, is a remarkable and timeless gift from Indian tradition to the world. Regular practice of Surya Namaskara supports individuals in cultivating a harmonious balance between mind, body, and emotions. It enhances physical flexibility, regulates body composition, sharpens mental clarity, encourages relaxation, and alleviates stress and anxiety. Flexibility and body composition are fundamental elements of health-related fitness, serving as vital indicators of overall wellness. Anxiety and stress, which are intricately linked to psychological health, are effectively managed and reduced through the consistent practice of Surya Namaskara, promoting a healthier and more peaceful state of mind.
Purpose: The aim of this study is to examine the effects of Surya Namaskara on flexibility, body composition, anxiety and stress among college-aged girls.
Methodology: A total of sixty-three (N=63) college girls from Purba Medinipur district in West Bengal, aged 19-22 years, were randomly selected as subjects. They were divided into two groups: the experimental group (Gr. E, N=33) and the control group (Gr. C, N=30). Baseline measurements were taken for both groups, including trunk and spine flexibility, body composition (body mass index [BMI], body fat percentage [%BF], and lean body mass [LBM]), as well as anxiety and stress using standardized questionnaires. Gr. E received Surya Namaskara training five days a week for 45 minutes per session, continuing for three months, while Gr. C did not receive any treatment. After three months, all the subjects were retested on the same criteria. Data were analyzed using paired t-tests to assess the effects of the intervention.
Results: The study revealed that in the experimental group (Gr. E), there was a significant improvement in trunk and spine flexibility, BMI, %BF, LBM, and reductions in anxiety and stress at a 0.05 level of confidence after three months of practicing Surya Namaskara. No significant changes were observed in the control group (Gr. C).
Conclusion: The findings indicate that regular practice of Surya Namaskara significantly improved physical variables such as trunk and spine flexibility, BMI, %BF, and LBM, as well as psychological variables like anxiety and stress among college girls. However, no significant improvement was observed in the control group.