Savasana

Most yoga classes culminate in Savasana. Other translations include Final Resting Pose or Corpse Pose which may be more familiar. The direct translation, Corpse pose, is to acknowledge and welcome the impermanence of everything, including life. The yogic philosophy states that by appreciating that death comes to us all; this allows us to value life even more. This is one of the most challenging asanas for most yogis. The intent of this pose is to move inward and meditate; and can be a whole new experience for some.

The purpose of yoga (as written by Patanjali) is to "stop the spinning of the mind." All the other asanas within a practice are preparing the body for meditation. Providing the ability to find a comfortable seat in which to move within. This is why Savasana comes at the end of a physical practice.

Savasana focuses more on the mind than the body, allowing for flexibility in a variety of positions, including reclined or sitting. You can enhance your experience with props such as a bolster under your knees, an eye pillow or perhaps nothing at all. Everyone's savasana should be personal to them.

Often, as soon as you are still, a myriad of thoughts will enter your mind. This is normal and you are not alone. This pose and mindset takes immense practice, perhaps even more than the physical asanas. A description of meditation that has helped me in my savasana practice is, "Imagine that each thought is a cloud. Look at the cloud, acknowledge it and let it float by."

Now we practice:

• Find your Savasana pose

• Make sure you are free from distractions and comfortable. Things to consider:

  • Temperature

  • Sound

  • Lighting

  • Any props needed to support your body

• Close your eyes or soften your gaze

• Imagine any part of you that is touching the ground growing roots into the earth, so that you feel supported

• Focus on your breath

• Feel everywhere your breath travels both on the inhale and the exhale

• Rest here for anywhere from 5-30 minutes

• When you have finished, deepen your breath and slowly allow your body to move

• Slowly come out of whatever posture you have chosen

• Keep this feeling with you as you go about you day

I wish you success in finding a deep savasana.