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LIFESTYLE

Photo: S. Mahinsha

Sun-bright Suryayog claims to draw on the curative energies from the sun for physical, mental and spiritual health.

It is a quarter to seven in the morning. A group of men and women assembled at Putharikandam Ground are waiting patiently, facing the east. These modern-day sun worshippers, called ‘Suryayogis,’ are waiting for the sun to rise to practise ‘Suryayog.’

Suryayog is being popularised in the city by followers of a kind of yoga and mediataion popularised by Idukki-born Jowel Gopinath, popularly known as Suryaji. Described by the followers as a scientific movement, Suryayog claims to draw on the curative energies of the sun for physical, mental and spiritual health.

A. Sankaran Nair, coordinator of the Trivandrum Chapter of The Suryayog Foundation, says: “We started Suryayog in the city two years back. There are nearly 300 people who practise this in the city.”

Suryayog is now practised in three places in the city: Putharikandam, Kanakakunnu and Edapazhinji.

The regimen, spanning about an hour, has practitioners gazing at the sun for 15 minutes and then meditating for 15 minutes. The Surya Yogis then clap 324 times and follow it up with unhindered laughter. The instructors guide the participants on the method and technique to be followed. Appropriate ‘mudras’ are used to the accompaniment of ‘slokas’ in the regional language. S

ays C. Bhuvanendran Nair, instructor: “It is best to be initiated under the guidance of trained instructors.”

Sun gazing is practised with a silver coin placed on the forehead, in between the eyebrows.

Explains Sankaran: “Silver, being a good conductor of heat, facilitates greater absorption of the sun’s rays.” Sulekha Vasudevan, instructor, feels that the coin also helps in meditation.

‘Suryayog’ may be practised either individually or in a group.

Is it safe to gaze at the sun without protecting the eyes? Sankaran replies, “It is safe to practise within the recommended hour.” According to P. Venuji, yet another instructor, “On a rainy day or during the monsoon an alternative method known as ‘Chidhakaashyog’ is followed, and this may be practised indoors.”

Practising ‘Suryayog’ consistently, according to the instructors, will provide a wide variety of benefits, both physical and mental. R.Subramoni, instructor, advises: “A minimum period of 85 days’ practice is recommended before one may start experiencing health benefits.” ‘Suryayog’ may be performed after drinking a glass of water in the morning.

Says Sankaran, “For the Suryayogis, ‘SUN’ stands for a ‘Single Unified Nation.’” The Foundation survives on voluntary contributions and sponsorships and expands through word-of-mouth publicity and experience sharing. The Foundation also brings out a Malayalam monthly called ‘Surya Sandesh’ that is priced at Rs.10 for an issue.

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