Contraindications: Ashtanga Surya Namaskar should not be practiced by the following: People who have cardiac problems, hypertension, sciatica, back problems, hernia, and ulcers. It should be avoided during the onset of menstruation and during pregnancy. It should also be avoided by those who have injuries or have undergone surgery.

Modifications: Depending on an individual, each pose can be modified to ensure comfort and safety during practice. The following modifications can be made:

Samasthiti: Those who have lower back problems or can’t keep their feet together can stand with feet hip-width apart

Urdhva Hastasana: Those who find it difficult to bring the palms together in namaskar mudra can keep palms shoulder with apart

Uttanasana: Those who have back problems can bend the knees to keep the spine straight and place the fingertips or palms on the floor

Ardha Uttanasana: Those who have back problems or curve the back can use yoga blocks to place the palms and ensure flat back. They can also step back instead of jumping to move to the next pose

Chaturanga Dandasana: People who don’t have the arm and core strength can practice plank pose or ardha chaturanga with knees on the floor or ashtanga namaskara

Urdhva Mukha Svanasana: People can bring the knees down to lift the upper body up. They can also keep their toes tucked in instead of flat for balance and support

Adho Mukha Svanasana: People can bend the knees to lengthen the spine and gradually straighten the legs with heels on the floor

Ardha Uttanasana: Those who can’t jump back into this pose can step their feet in and follow the above-mentioned modifications for the pose

Uttanasana: Follow the above-mentioned modifications for the pose

Urdhva Hastasana: Follow the above-mentioned modifications for the pose

Samasthiti: Follow the above-mentioned modifications for the pose