Savasana is the easiest as well as the hardest asana in Yoga. The asana is considered the easiest one, as the practitioner needs to release the control of his body muscles and organs and remain still as a corpse. At the same time, this asana is considered as the hardest asana, as the practitioner is expected to reduce or completely stop the mental activity, thus relaxing his mind- which is often very difficult for new practitioners. The asana can be practiced by practitioners after an intense yoga session. The asana is also useful for professionals and sportspersons who are feeling tired and exhausted after working physically and/ro mentally for longer periods of time.
Etymology of Savasana
The term Savasana comprises two Sanskrit words: ‘Sava’ which means corpse and ‘Asana’ which means posture. The asana has been known by this name, as the body of the practitioner resembles a corpse or dead body.
Steps of performing Savasana
1. Lie down comfortably and close the eyes.
2. Maintain a little distance between your feet. The toes must face sideways. Place both arms in normal position and slightly distanced from the body, with palms facing towards the sky.
3. Close your eyes. Release all body muscles and try to relax.
4. While remaining in this position, focus on your different body parts starting from the toes and go upwards to your head. take deep and slow breaths.
5. Draw your complete focus on your own self. Try to divert your mind from other worldly chores and worries.
6. Stay in this asana for 10-15 minutes. After relaxing in this position, roll your body sideways and stay in this position for almost a minute. The eyes must remain closed in this position. than get up and sit in Sukhasana (Insert hyperlink)
Precautions for beginners/ practitioners
1. People who have been advised by the doctor to avoid lying on their back must avoid this asana.
2. Pregnant women are advised to use some support such as a folded blanket for the chest and head.
3. Practitioners, who have stiff shoulders and cannot place their upper body on the floor, may elevate their head to the level of their shoulders. A folded blanket can be used to support the head in this case.
4. Practitioners with stiff hamstrings and or lower back can put a firm support or a tightly folded blanket under their knees.
Benefits of practicing Savasana
1. Refresh and Rejuvenate the mind and body.
2. Relaxes body muscles.
3. Lowers down anxiety and blood pressure.
4. Helps in increasing memory and concentrating power.