The Art of Savasana: How to Fully Relax and Recharge
Savasana, also known as "corpse pose," is often considered the most important pose in yoga. It is the final posture of every yoga practice, and while it may seem like a simple pose, it has a profound effect on the mind and body.
In its essence, savasana is about letting go. It's about releasing tension and allowing the body and mind to fully relax. When we do savasana correctly, we can experience a deep sense of calm and rejuvenation.
So, how can we make the most of savasana and truly reap its benefits? Here are some tips to help you master the art of savasana:
What is Savasana?
Savasana is a relaxation pose that's typically performed at the end of a physical yoga practice. In this asana, you lie flat on your back with your arms at your sides and your palms facing up, with feet slightly apart and eyes closed. The goal of savasana is to fully relax your body and mind, allowing you to release tension and stress and recharge your energy.
The History of Savasana
Savasana has been practiced for thousands of years in India as part of the yoga tradition. The word "savasana" comes from the Sanskrit words "sava" (meaning "corpse") and "asana" (meaning "pose"). In ancient times, it was believed that practicing savasana helped prepare the body for death, allowing the soul to leave the body in a peaceful state.
Today, savasana is still practiced for its many physical and mental benefits. It's a great way to reduce stress, improve sleep, and promote overall wellness.
How to Practice Savasana
Here are some tips for practicing savasana effectively:
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Set the Scene: Find a quiet, comfortable place to practice where you won't be disturbed. Dim the lights and play some relaxing music if you like. You can find some curated yoga playlists on our Spotify page.
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Get Comfortable: Lie down on your back with a pillow or blanket if needed for support. Make sure you're warm enough and adjust your clothing accordingly. It's common to start feeling colder when you lie in stillness after dynamic asanas so socks and layers are your friend here.
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Relax Your Body: Start at the top of your head and work your way down, consciously relaxing each part of your body. Gradually begin to release and let go of any tension you're holding in your muscles.
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Focus on Your Breath: Pay attention to your breath as you inhale and exhale. Breathe deeply and slowly, allowing your breath to become calm and steady.
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Quiet Your Mind: As thoughts come into your mind, acknowledge them and then let them go. Try to focus on your breath or a mental image that brings you peace.
How long should I practice Savasana?
The ideal duration for Savasana varies from person to person and depends on factors such as the type of yoga practice, the intensity of the practice, and individual preferences. Generally, a Savasana of 5-15 minutes is recommended for most people. However, some experienced practitioners may prefer to extend it up to 30 minutes or longer for a deeper relaxation and rejuvenation.
It is important to note that the purpose of Savasana is to allow the body and mind to fully relax and release any tension or stress from the practice. So, it is essential to choose a duration that feels comfortable and supportive for your body and mind, rather than feeling like a chore or obligation.
In addition to the duration, there are some other factors that can enhance the experience of Savasana, such as choosing a quiet and peaceful space, using props like blankets to support the body or an eye mask to shut out the light, setting an intention or focusing on the breath.
Ultimately, the length of Savasana should be a personal choice based on your own needs and preferences, and can be adjusted as needed based on your own experience and feedback from your body.