The 108: Quarterly

Hosted at Swell the Sunday before every Solstice and Equinox, this ancient tradition of performing 108 Sun Salutations (Surya Namaskar) is a powerful way to mark the changing seasons and honor the balance between body, mind, and spirit. The number 108 carries profound spiritual significance, appearing in various cultures and systems around the world, and is seen as a symbol of completion, harmony, and connection.

This ritual is a full-being experience. The repetitive nature of your movements asks your mind and body to focus and find a meditative rhythm. The rhythm of this flow allows you to cultivate mental clarity and stability as you move through each salutation.

We believe that The 108 is a practice for everyone, whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned yogi. Our instructors are dedicated to creating an inclusive, supportive environment where each person can participate fully and safely. We have first-timers every season!

Options for All Levels: At the beginning of the practice, you will be guided through various types of Surya Namaskar (sun salutations), with modifications for every level of experience. Whether you prefer a slower, more grounded practice or a faster-paced flow, there is an option that suits you.

Pacing and Rest: The 108 practice is never the same. We encourage you to show up exactly as you are and practice at your own pace. You’ll receive instructions on how to take breaks when needed, as well as guidance on how to rest effectively between rounds. Our instructors will offer verbal cues and demos at the beginning, ensuring that you are prepared.

Counting Made Easy: We get it, 108 is a big number! To help you keep track of your progress, we’ll provide counting beads, allowing you to mindfully count each Sun Salutation. The act of counting helps to anchor your mind and create a rhythm, turning the practice into a meditation in motion.

Community Support: One of the most powerful aspects of this practice is the shared sense of unity that emerges. You’ll be joining a group of like-minded yogis, all coming together with the shared intention of moving through this ritual with focus, presence, and compassion. Though you move at our your pace, the collective energy of the shala supports each student on their journey.

In many spiritual traditions, the number 108 is considered sacred and is believed to carry deep symbolic meaning. Here’s just a few reasons why:

Mathematical Significance: 108 is a Harshad number, meaning it is divisible by the sum of its digits (1 + 0 + 8 = 9). This creates a sense of harmony and balance.

Cosmic Connection: The distance from Earth to both the Sun and the Moon is approximately 108 times their respective diameters. This celestial relationship highlights the interconnectedness of the universe and our place within it.

Body and Energy: In yoga, it is believed that there are 108 marma points in the body—energy centers where the body’s tissues converge. Stimulating these points through movement and breath can promote balance and vitality.

Spiritual Journey: In both Hinduism and Buddhism, 108 symbolizes the stages of spiritual development. In Buddhism, it is said there are 108 earthly temptations that one must overcome to achieve nirvana, while in Hinduism, the Atman (inner self) progresses through 108 stages of spiritual growth. The use of Mala beads, which traditionally have 108 beads per strand, is a common tool for prayer and meditation, helping practitioners focus on their intentions.