Numbers in Sanskrit for Sun Salutations

How do you count Sun Salutations in Sanskrit? In the Ashtanga Vinyasa led method, Sun Salutation A has nine counted movements and Sun Salutation B has seventeen. Learn the spoken sequence from ekam (one) through saptadaśa (seventeen), with aṣṭādaśa (eighteen) provided for additional number practice. The final return to standing is often an unnumbered exhale.

Numbers hold special significance in Sanskrit, one of the world's oldest languages. Each digit carries unique meanings and is associated with symbolic concepts in spiritual practices. By understanding these numbers, practitioners can deepen their connection with traditional yoga practices.

Interested in more numbers in Sanskrit? Read: 108 Sanskrit Numbers

On top of being able to count numbers in Sanskrit, you can even count the Sun Salutation sequences out in Sanskrit. This will be especially interesting for yoga teachers.

Surya Namaskar Numbers in Sanskrit

Surya Namaskar, or Sun Salutation, originated from the Vedic traditions of India. The practice was later adapted into Hatha yoga by 20th-century yoga practitioners. It evolved to be part of ashtanga yoga, vinyasa yoga, and many other types of yoga becoming a staple in yoga classes for its ability to prepare the body and mind for further asana (posture) practice.

There are two sequences for Surya Namaskar that we can use numbers in Sanskrit to count.

Understanding the count of these sequences in Sanskrit introduces a unique layer of meaning and connection for practitioners.

Numbers in Sanskrit: 1 through 18

These are commonly used counting forms in Ashtanga-led vinyasa, given with Devanagari and International Alphabet of Sanskrit Transliteration (IAST) markings. Forms of Sanskrit numerals change with grammatical context, so the list is not the only possible way to express each number.

Sun Salutation A: nine counted vinyasas

In the widely taught Ashtanga-led count, Sun Salutation A has nine named vinyasas. Return to samasthitiḥ on the concluding exhale without adding a tenth spoken count. A local studio may use a ten-step instructional list by numbering the starting or finishing stance; that is not the same as the nine-count led method.

Then exhale back to samasthitiḥ (equal standing). Traditional led counting may include several breaths at Downward-Facing Dog. Step rather than jump when appropriate.

Sun Salutation B: seventeen counted vinyasas

In the same Ashtanga-led method, Sun Salutation B has seventeen named vinyasas, followed by an unnumbered return to samasthitiḥ. It includes Chair Pose and Warrior I on both sides.

On the closing exhale, return to samasthitiḥ. Counts and breath cues are a teaching guide, not an obligation to push through pain or force a jump. See the AshtangaYoga.info count reference and Ashtanga Yoga Denver's Sun Salutation B count.

The Significance of Counting in Practice

Counting numbers in Sanskrit plays a pivotal role in maintaining the rhythm and mindfulness of a yoga practice. A consistent count helps synchronize the breath and movement with each posture. This synchronization allows practitioners to enter a meditative flow.

Integrating Sanskrit counting into your practice or classes deepens this experience. Counting aloud can help learners coordinate the sequence, breath and shared class rhythm; claims about a unique measurable vibration for each number are not established.

By chanting the numbers in Sanskrit, practitioners connect with the roots of yoga.

Integrating Numbers in Sanskrit to Your Practice

The relationship between Sanskrit numbers and Surya Namaskar is deeply intertwined. As we explore the Sun Salutation sequences, counting each pose in Sanskrit reinforces the spiritual aspect of the practice.

Integrating Sanskrit counting can transform the practice, adding layers of mental and physical significance.

I encourage you to integrate Sanskrit counting into your practice or teachings, whether through silent repetition or chanting aloud to your class as they flow through Surya Namaskar. 

Please feel free to share in the comments below how integrating numbers in Sanskrit has influenced your practice.

Frequently asked questions about Sanskrit counting

Why do some teachers count ten and eighteen steps?

Some instructional lists number the starting or concluding Mountain Pose as a separate step. The traditional led Ashtanga vinyasa counts are nine for A and seventeen for B. Learn which counting method your teacher follows.

Do I need Sanskrit to practice Sun Salutations?

No. Sanskrit can be a valuable way to learn the practice's terms and rhythm, and a clear translated cue or accessible modification is also appropriate.

For additional vocabulary, see 108 Sanskrit Numbers and Ashtanga Yoga. About the author.