What Is Corpse Pose Or Savasana
The Corpse Pose is a relaxation pose that is normally done at the end of all asanas. But it can be done at any other time as well, as and when the need for relaxation is felt. The Corpse Pose looks like an easy and simple relaxing posture which you do between asanas or after the asana session. But this pose calls for tremendous reserves of awareness and attention If done properly, the Corpse Pose stimulates blood circulation and helps reduce and, often, heal conditions such as asthma, constipation, diabetes, fatigue, indigestion, insomnia and nervousness. The regular practice of this asana also improves your powers of concentration and coordination.
1. In Corpse Pose it is mandatory that your body is in a completely neutral position. Start by sitting on your mat, feet flat on the mat, knees bent. Now lean back into your forearms. With an inhalation, slowly stretch your left leg, then your right. Turn your feet out equally on either side.
2. Slightly rock from side to side then lean back and rest your right elbow, then your left, your back and, finally, your head onto your mat. The backs of your hands should be lying on your mat around 6 inches away from your torso. Spread your feet about 12 inches apart and let your feet fall to the sides.
3. You may either keep your face and head facing the ceiling or feel free to drop it to either side, whatever keeps you more relaxed. The only difference is that if you drop your head to one side there are chances of dropping off into sleep as the session progresses. On the other hand, if your keep your neck and head straight, facing the ceiling, there are chances of getting tense and not relaxing enough. Ideally, you should aim at total relaxation without falling asleep.
4. The best part of the Corpse Pose is that besides silencing your physical body you also calm your sense organs. Soften and loosen every part of your body consciously and release all stress and tension voluntarily.
5. Next follows the best part called ‘Auto Suggestion’. In this you gently command every part of your body to relax. An instance of the command is: “I am relaxing my toes. My toes are totally and completely relaxed.” Likewise you move upwards giving gentle relaxation to the following parts: feet and ankles, lower legs, knees, thighs, groin, buttocks, pelvis, hips, waist, abdomen and lower back, sternum and middle back, chest and upper back, fingers, palms and wrists, forearms, elbows, upper arms, shoulder joints and shoulders, neck and throat, back and top of the head, temples and all facial features and finally the mind and heart.
6. Rest in Shavasana for 15 – 30 minutes at least once daily. To come out of the pose, first gently turn to one side, preferably your right. Then press your hands into your mat and raise your trunk, then slowly drag your head after it. Your head should always rise last.
Never end your Yoga session without doing the Corpse Pose no matter how much in a hurry you are. Rather than leave it out cut down a few other asanas to accommodate Shavasana. It is mandatory, it is your body’s birthright to relax and process information subsequent to the Yoga session. Above all, it is important to remain awake throughout. Well, at least try to.
Benefits Of Corpse Pose (Savasana)
- The Corpse Pose is fantastic for relaxing no just the body but the brain as well.
- It helps relieve stress, tension, fatigue and even depression.
- It is excellent for high blood pressure, cardiac problems, diabetes.
- In fact for all psychosomatic syndromes stemming from everyday stress and tensions, including asthma, sinusitis, chronic constipation and headaches, varicose veins, eczema, fatigue, vertigo and insomnia. You name it the Corpse Pose helps relax and even heal it.
Contraindications:
- People suffering from low blood pressure shouldn’t over do the Corpse Pose.
