Dont we all love savasana right :x)
Lets talk about savasana today
Start from Mythology of Savasana
The name Savasana comes from the Sanskrit words, “Sava” (corpse) and “Asana” (pose). The posture symbolizes complete surrender and stillness, much like a corpse, which represents the ultimate state of rest, letting go, and detachment.
In yogic philosophy, Savasana is believed to represent a spiritual practice of “dying to the ego”—a release of attachments, thoughts, and distractions that clutter the mind. By lying still and deeply relaxing, the practitioner embraces stillness and allows for rejuvenation. This is a kind to the concept of rebirth—emerging refreshed and renewed after symbolic “death” in the pose. Savasana serves as the final posture in yoga practice, signifying the completion of physical effort and a journey into inner peace.
In Shakta Mythology, Shiva actually Shava - a dead body - until the goddess kali dance on him. Without the goddess , he is as good as a corpse. This popular story embodies the dichotomy between matter and the mind or matter without soul.
How to Perform Savasana
Starting Position: Lie flat on your back on a yoga mat. Allow your legs to extend straight and slightly apart, feet falling naturally outward, please added bolster or roll the blanket and place under your knees to keep your lower back happy.
Arm Placement: Rest your arms by your sides, palms facing upward in a gesture of openness.
Head and Neck Alignment: Keep your head centered, with the neck in a neutral position. If needed, use a thin cushion or blanket under the head.
Relax the Body: Close your eyes. Relax each part of your body consciously—starting from your toes and working your way up to the crown of your head. soften your jaws and shoulders too.
Focus on Breath: Breathe naturally and deeply. Observe your breath as it flows in and out, letting go of all effort.
Stillness: Remain completely still, allowing your body to sink into the mat. Release any remaining tension and let your mind settle.
Duration: Hold Savasana for 5-15 minutes, depending on your practice and needs.
Exiting the Pose: Gently wiggle your fingers and toes to bring awareness back to your body. arms over your head, full stretch, knees to chest, twist side to side, Roll to your right side, pausing briefly before coming to a seated position.
Benefits of Savasana
Relieves Stress, Helps reduce physical and mental tension, promoting deep relaxation.
Calms the Nervous System, Activates the parasympathetic nervous system, reducing heart rate and lowering blood pressure.
Improves Focus and Mental Clarity, Quieting the mind enhances concentration and mindfulness.
Restores Energy, Acts as a form of conscious rest, rejuvenating the body and relieving fatigue.
Improves Sleep Quality: Regular practice can help combat insomnia and improve the quality of sleep.
Aids Recovery, Allows muscles and tissues to repair after physical exertion, making it essential after active yoga poses.
Encourages Emotional Release: Facilitates the release of suppressed emotions and promotes inner peace.
Disclaimer
Avoid this pose if lying on your back causes discomfort; consider using props such as cushions, bolster or blankets to support your back or neck.
Pregnant individuals may need to lie on their left side instead of flat on their back to avoid pressure on the vena cava.
Individuals with back injuries can place a rolled blanket under the knees for support.
Those prone to restlessness should focus on their breath or a calming mantra to maintain stillness.
If dizziness or discomfort occurs, support the head higher with bolster, or exit the pose slowly and consult a yoga instructor for modifications.
The Role of Savasana in Daily Life
In our busy and often overstimulated lives, Savasana reminds us of the importance of rest, stillness, and self-care. Just as the body needs activity, it also requires complete relaxation to heal, recharge, and function optimally. By practicing Savasana, we learn to let go of control, quiet the noise of the mind, and reconnect with our inner calm. This posture teaches us to balance effort with ease, reminding us that true growth often happens in moments of stillness.
Mantra for Savasana
A simple, calming mantra to enhance the experience of Savasana:
“Om Shanti Shanti Shanti”
“Om, Peace, Peace, Peace.”
This mantra invokes peace in the body, mind, and spirit, encouraging deeper relaxation and harmony.
or
Affirmation
“I release all tension. I am calm, peaceful, and fully present in this moment.”
By embracing Savasana, you integrate the benefits of your yoga practice, nurturing your mind and body to approach life with greater clarity, energy, and peace.
Dont we love savasana even more now :x)
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