CHICAGO: In today's fast paced life, leading a healthy life is not easy, but still it is all the more important. There is a need for relaxation of both mind and body, to either set the tone for the day or wind down after a hard day at work.

Obesity among all ages, including children, has reached epidemic proportions causing serious health concerns. In spite of all the advancements in medicine, there is a need for alternative and adjunct options that have lesser or no side effects for the management of chronic illness and suffering.

In view of the above challenges, and with the goal of "Health for Humanity" Hindu Swayamsevak Sangh USA (HSS) a non-profit organization, is organizing a unique nation wide program titled Surya Namaskar Yagna (SNY). The approach is holistic wherein performing Surya Namaskar, a popular yoga procedure performed daily by millions world wide, benefits an individual at physical, mental, intellectual, and spiritual levels.

The word "Yagna", in Sanskrit means service or sacrifice. SNY aims at encouraging the community to lead a healthy and happy life with a spirit of sacrifice by incorporating Surya Namaskar into their daily routine. The health benefits of Surya Namaskar have been known since ancient times. Recent scientific studies corroborate with this ancient belief and are finding evidence of its positive effects on the cardiovascular system, muscle strength, and endurance.

Regulated breathing through Pranayama, vibrations produced by recitation of mantras help an individual reach a state of timelessness with complete mental relaxation and immense spiritual satisfaction. SNY in the USA was first organized in January of 2007.

It was widely successful with 4364 participants performing almost half a million Surya Namaskars. In recognition of the effort, the State of Oklahoma declared the last day of SNY as "Yoga Awareness Day". Enthused by the response, the goal for SNY of 2008 is to double the number by reaching 7000 participants, and performing one million Surya Namaskars.

The SNY campaign starts from January 12 and ends on the January 27. Anyone in the United States, irrespective of age, sex or religion can participate in the program. Participation is free of cost and no prior training in yoga is necessary.

Self study video tutorials, literature and additional information are available on the HSS-SNY website (www.hssus.org/sny) and will also be provided upon request. All that a participating individual or family needs to do is to spend a few minutes daily at home performing Surya Namaskars.

For those who prefer a group atmosphere, the country wide chapters of HSS are organizing group-sessions, 24 hour relay Surya Namaskar marathons and other events suited to local needs. HSS is encouraging Yoga centers, Yoga groups, schools and other organizations to participate in this Yoga Marathon and they will be given all the required support for successful completion.

SNY is a wonderful opportunity for everyone to adopt a healthy lifestyle and enthusiastic participation by one and all would be a definite step towards achieving the goal "Health for Humanity."