Although it might look easy, Savasana – also known as Corpse pose – requires focus and awareness. Practised with intention, it complements and concludes active yoga practice, bringing together the physical and spiritual aspects of the discipline. Here’s a reminder of how to practise it:
- From a seated position on your mat, gently lower your upper torso to lie flat.
- Positioning your torso involves various stages. Start by relaxing and opening your hips outwards, tilting the pelvic region, which gently opens the legs. Feet extend away from each other. Legs are about hip-distance apart.*
- Gently lift and extend your shoulder blades backwards, opening your chest area. Allow your abdomen to release down into the mat. Extend your arms gently outwards from the body, with palms open, fingers gently unfurling upwards.
- Extend your neck and head away from your shoulders, tilt your chin towards your chest slightly to maintain a flat neck. Soften and relax the muscles in your face, neck and tongue. Close or soften your eyes. You may choose to focus your gaze to the centre of your forehead.
- When comfortable, bring your attention to your breath. Breathe in deeply and out slowly through your nose. Practise making the exhalation twice as long as the inhalation, for example, breathe in deeply for three counts, breathe out slowly for six.
- As you consciously breathe, scan your body, beginning with your feet and working your way up to your head. With each out-breath, relax each muscle and body part.
- Lie here and surrender to the peace within for between five and 10 minutes. You may choose to listen to music or a guided meditation while in this state.
- To come out of the pose, bring your attention back to your physical self, wiggle your fingers and toes and turn on your side to a foetal position. Rest for a few moments and then slowly come up to seated.
*Place blankets or bolsters for added support where needed.
Words: Dawattie Basdeo. Follow her @magnificentmemagnificentyou
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