Corpse pose, or Savasana, is exactly what the name sounds like. This pose has an individual lie completely straight on their back with their arms and legs extended, just like a corpse. The name is derived from the Sanskrit language, ‘Sava,’ which means corpse and ‘Asana,’ which means pose.
Corpse Pose (Savasana)
An essential pose to take right before ending a yoga routine, corpse pose is the final pose you take to promote a sense of calm.
While corpse pose sounds like an easy pose to master, many individuals find it extremely hard to lay completely still during the pose. However, with time and focus, corpse pose can be performed and practiced correctly to yield the body and mind a multitude of benefits.
Corpse Pose Directions:
The following directions will help you master the technique of Savasana:
- Get into an easy seated position and start to extend your arms and legs as you get ready to lie down.
- Lie down on your back with your arms beside your sides and your legs extended straight out in front of you. Your feet should be comfortably apart from each other for maximum relaxation.
- You have the option to keep your palms facing up to receive energy, or you can have them facing down for grounding.
- Slowly close your eyes and allow your body and mind to relax.
- Focus on your breath and forget about everything that surrounds you.
- Feel the touch of air on your body’s skin and keep your mind clear of all thoughts.
- Hold this position for a few minutes and try to lay as still and calm as possible. It’s okay if you fall asleep as this pose is one to help you relax.
Corpse Pose Variations:
There are a few variations one can take with corpse pose.
Variation 1:
Constructive Rest Pose
As you lie flat on your back, bend your knees and plant the soles of your feet on the ground. Relax the spine and keep your arms beside you, making sure your eyes are still closed.
Variation 2:
Stick Pose
In this variation, as you are lying down flat, instead of keeping your arms beside you, bring them overhead and stretch them out towards the back wall. Give your whole body a big stretch like you would when you wake up in the morning.
Benefits of Corpse Pose:
The main benefit of corpse pose is the relaxation you provide to your body and mind. However, there are other advantages that come with the regular practice of corpse pose.
Added benefits of corpse pose include the following:
- Reduces anxiety and stress
- Calms the nervous system
- Promotes focus on the breath
- Relaxes the entire muscles of the body
- Reduces blood pressure
- Improves respiratory function
Corpse Pose Precautions:
While corpse pose is a safe pose for most individuals, there are a few precautions one must take before practicing this pose.
Corpse pose is not recommended for individuals with the following conditions:
- Very low blood pressure
- Severe acidity
Quick FAQs
1. How can one practice the corpse pose?
By following the steps mentioned above, learn how to master the technique of corpse pose and leave your body and mind feeling calm and relaxed.
Updated by Siya Rajan on 06/06/2018
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References:
Courtesy The Yoga Institute, Santacruz (E), Mumbai
Corpse Pose. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://www.tummee.com/yoga-poses/corpse-pose
