There are many benefits of the corpse pose, also known as “Savasana” in Sanskrit. It is an easy pose for almost anyone to perform. It is often performed at the end of yoga classes or sets of other poses so that your body has time to integrate all of the benefits of the poses just performed. Corpse helps you focus on your breathing so you can calm your mind and body to relieve stress and anxiety, which can also help lower your blood pressure and relieve headaches.
Ease into Corpse Pose
The corpse pose is easy: lie on your back, preferably on a yoga mat, with your eyes closed, palms facing up toward the sky, toes resting outward. Breathe deeply. Relax. Let go.
At the same time, optimal body alignment is critical to a great corpse pose experience. Your yoga instructor can help you and may also provide props to help achieve the best alignment. For example:
Sit on the floor with your knees bent, feet on the floor. Support yourself with your arms and hands behind you as you gradually lower yourself. Inhale as you stretch out your right leg, then your left leg out in front of you, heels first along the floor.
As you lie down into the corpse pose, release your groin and let your toes relax, pointing outward. Relax, but do not flatten your lower back while narrowing the pelvis.
Position your head and neck so that your spine is in a neutral position and your ears are equally distant from your shoulders. You can use a rolled up towel or blanket to support the correct positioning.
Lift your arms up and then gently lower them evenly spaced away from your torso, with the palms facing toward the sky, backs of the hands resting firmly on the floor.
Rest in this peaceful pose, eyes closed and focused toward the space between your eyebrows. Focus on your breath and how each breath feels and enjoy how the stress melts out of your body. Stay in this peaceful spot for 5-30 minutes. Corpse pose is recommended after every 30 minutes of yoga.
Is Corpse Pose Appropriate for Me?
Savasana is helpful for almost everyone. If you are pregnant or recovering from a back injury, your yoga instructor can help you use props and blankets to modify the corpse pose for your benefit.