Relaxation Pose, commonly known as Savasana or Corpse Pose, is perhaps the most essential posture in yoga practice despite its apparent simplicity. It involves lying supine on the floor with arms and legs comfortably spread, palms facing upward, and eyes closed. The entire body relaxes completely into the support of the ground.
While Savasana appears physically undemanding, it presents a significant mental challenge. The objective is to remain perfectly still while maintaining complete awareness—relaxed but alert. This deliberate stillness allows the benefits of the preceding yoga practice to integrate fully into both body and mind. In traditional yoga philosophy, Savasana is considered crucial for allowing prana (life force energy) to circulate freely throughout the body.
Physiologically, Relaxation Pose activates the parasympathetic nervous system, triggering the body’s “rest and digest” response. This reduces blood pressure, slows the heart rate, relaxes muscles, and improves digestion. Regular practice has been linked to reduced anxiety, improved sleep quality, and enhanced stress management capabilities.
Many teachers consider Savasana the most important pose in yoga, often allocating 5-15 minutes for it at the end of class. Modifications include placing bolsters under the knees to relieve lower back tension, using eye pillows to deepen relaxation, or elevating the head slightly for those with certain health conditions. For practitioners who find lying flat uncomfortable, alternatives like Side-Lying Relaxation Pose can provide similar benefits.
