Benefits of Shavasana or Corpse Pose
What is Shavasana?
In Sanskrit, ‘Shava’ means ‘dead body’ or corpse, and ‘asana’ means ‘pose’. That is why Shavasana can be literally translated to mean Corpse Pose. Sometimes it is also referred to as Mritasana, where ‘mrita’ again means ‘dead’.
Shavasana is a very relaxing pose, which is done at the end of a yoga session or in between very strenuous poses, in order to relax the body. It is a lying down pose, where you have to lie down almost motionless on the floor, like a dead person, but with the difference being that you breathe in and out slowly and evenly.
Step by step procedure:
Benefits:
In Sanskrit, ‘Shava’ means ‘dead body’ or corpse, and ‘asana’ means ‘pose’. That is why Shavasana can be literally translated to mean Corpse Pose. Sometimes it is also referred to as Mritasana, where ‘mrita’ again means ‘dead’.
Shavasana is a very relaxing pose, which is done at the end of a yoga session or in between very strenuous poses, in order to relax the body. It is a lying down pose, where you have to lie down almost motionless on the floor, like a dead person, but with the difference being that you breathe in and out slowly and evenly.
Step by step procedure:
- The place where you practice should be well-ventilated and quiet.
- Spread a mat or a carpet on the floor, ensuring that the surface is flat and firm.
- Your outfit should be loose, cool and comfortable.
- Lie down flat on your back, with your face turned upwards and your feet stretched out full length. Keep the feet a little apart. Your knees, hips and groin should be relaxed.
- Rest your arms at your sides, extending them fully. They should be kept loosely in a relaxed position. Turn your palms upwards and curl the fingers slightly.
- Keep your mouth relaxed and loose, so that the chin and jaw drops slightly and your mouth is a little open, with the teeth parted.
- Now shut your eyes softly.
- Lie totally still like a corpse, allowing all the muscles to relax completely.
- Keep your mind relaxed and free of any worry, fears, conflicts or tension. If any parts or muscles of the body feel taut, relax them.
- Breathe in and out evenly and naturally without attempting to regulate it. The rhythmic breathing will relax the mind so much that you will lose consciousness of the body.
- You can stay in this pose for as long as 30 minutes if you wish.
- To come out of the pose, take some deep breaths, open your eyes and then sit up.
Benefits:
- This pose is extremely relaxing for all the organs and muscles of the body and reduces fatigue.
- It is calming for the mind, and by discharging mental and emotional tension, helps to release mild depression and stress.
- It brings about inner mental peace.
- It also reduces migraine or any headaches caused by stress.
- The restful posture and slow breathing also helps to lower blood pressure.
- Practicing Shavasana gives renewed vigor to the mind and body, and increases work efficiency.