Surya, the sun god is addressed by many names in Vedas, Aditya, Saitur, Martanda, Bhaskara.  The early morning rays which is red is called Aruna.  He is worshipped in the morning rituals, noon and evening; via arghyam.  What is argyham?  When water is offered to Surya, it splits the sun’s rays into a spectrum of colors similar to the rainbow and when it enters our body there are benefits, some are; Vitamin D and Calcium.  Surya is the source of all life forms on our planet.  In Yoga “Surya Namaskar” or “Sun Salutation” pays homage to the sun, the giver of life and energy!  There are 24 postures (12 on each side) strung together into a flow of postures to bring amazing transformation to the body and mind.  The benefits of Surya Namaskara include but are not limited to…  

• revitalizing the body and mind
• eradicate disease
• weight loss
• flexibility
• cure lethargy
• sleeplessness

When properly and deliberately done Surya Namaskara stretches, massages, tones up and simulates the muscles, vital organs and other physical parts achieved by alternately flexing the body forward and backwards. The postures enhance prana (life energy). The flow of the postures reflects the rhythms of the universe – 24 hours, 12 zodiac signs. It is this rhythmic superimposition of the form and energy that transforms the lives of those who practice this regularly. 

Also, Surya plays a significant role in astrology as the head of the solar system.  Generally speaking, the planet Surya in astrology signifies power, position and authority.  The seasons happen due to the Sun and the movement of the earth.  Thus, Hindus celebrate and worship Surya during the harvest season, thanking him for crops and effects he has on all the plants, trees and wellbeing of all human beings.