How to do Savasana?
What is it?
Savasana means corpse pose and is often the final position assumed at the end of a yoga class. The purpose of this position is to take the body into a final resting position where there is little to no movement, allowing the mind to switch off and the body to rest.
How to do Savasana?
- Lay on your back and extend the arms out to the sides, palms up. Legs are extended towards the bottom of the mat, with feet heading to opposite corners.
- Cover yourself up with a blanket, as your temperature will drop during the relaxation process.
- Take up as much space as you can on your mat.
- Eyes can close or the gaze can soften.
Modifications and Variations
- For many yoga practitioners laying on the back doesn’t feel very restful or relaxing. Try adopting a side lying position instead – place an extra blanket on top of the mat and use any props you have to hand.
- Laying face down and resting the forehead on hands or a small rolled blanket is another great way to access savasana.
- A seated position is always an option, even better if you can bring your back against a wall to offer some additional support.
Props
There are many ways to use props in this position:
- Try a rolled blanket or bolster under the knees if your lower back feels uncomfortable.
- A weighted eye pillow will help to activate the body’s natural relaxation response by adding a little pressure to the eyes.
- Add a few drops of your favourite, relaxing essential oil onto your blanket, eye pillow or a small hand towel placed beside your mat.
Benefits
- Allows the body and mind to switch off for a short period of time.
- The longer we can remain in this still pose, the greater the depth of release and relaxation.
- The mind gradually stills and we can experience true and complete relaxation.
- May improve sleep, if practiced regularly.
