Savasana: the yogic art of relaxation

Whatever our style of yoga, we conclude our pratice of postures with savasana, the ultimate relaxation pose, literal meaning: corpse pose.

When I was new to yoga I would often collapse gratefully onto the mat at the end of the practice, in relief. I would lie there for a few minutes, then I would start to think about breakfast or the day ahead or whatever.

Over time, I have learnt that there is so much more to savasana, often referred to as the most difficult of all asana. It may also be the most rewarding as it has the potential to rejuvenate. When we still the physical body we allow the awakened prana (vital energy) to move through the nadis (energy channels) nourishing and revitalising us on a cellular level. It is a deep and delicious feeling to be fully relaxed yet alert and awake.

To achieve this blissful state we have to consciously surrender the physical body. This means a deliberate letting of muscular tension, which is most easily achieved if we are practicing regularly, ideally on a daily basis and integrating pranayama and breath awareness.

The obstacles to a successful savasana that I have observed in myself and students are two-fold. In the first instance we may be overtired and savasana becomes a prelude to sleep, indeed we may find ourselves drifting off, gently snoring. You may have experienced this for yourself in class! In the second instance the mind is overactive, we can relax neither body nor mind, we are nervous and restless.

Savasana also has a therapeutic application. It is invaluable when dealing with anxiety and stress and during times of intense emotions, such as shock and grief when we need to take time out. Due to its restorative nature it can also be useful during menstruation.

In a typical 90 minute yoga class we can maybe spend 5 minutes savasana. As part of a home practice or as yoga therapy I would suggest maintaining the pose between 10 - 20 minutes for optimum benefits.

Further reading : 'Light on Pranayama' by BKS Iyengar, Chapter 30: Savasana