Yoga BLOG

Shavasana - The Corpse Pose Shavasana is also called corpse pose because it describes the period of rest. You lie motionless on your back so that the previous yoga class can take effect physically and mentally. The meaning of "corpse pose" or "dead silence" may seem very simple at first. But lying completely still is not comparable to lying down on the couch to make yourself comfortable. Below, you'll learn exactly how to practice this yoga pose and what benefits and positive effects you can achieve with it. Shavasana - complete relaxation at the end of a yoga class The groin is relaxed, the spine long, and the arms rest at a 30 to 45° angle alongside the torso. The palms face upward, opening the chest and shoulders. The shoulders must not be hunched. Alertness is an important characteristic. You lie on your back, completely still and motionless, keeping your attention entirely on Shavasana and fully aware of the moment. The body becomes completely silent; only the moment is present. It lies rigidly on the floor so that not even a finger moves. Breathing is permitted, but even the breath becomes very shallow and almost inaudible with complete relaxation. You should hold Shavasana for at least five and a maximum of 20 minutes. Find your own rhythm and listen to your body, because it knows best what is good for you. To exit the corpse pose, lift your legs and bring them to your chest. Then clasp them with your arms and roll from the right to the left side and back again several times. If possible, stop on the right side. Then focus your mind and breathe a few times. Use your hands to straighten up. This is how you come out of the yoga pose. What can you achieve through Shavasana? The deep relaxation phase of the corpse pose is good for body and mind after an often very demanding yoga class. Your heartbeat and breathing calm down, and restorative and regenerative bodily processes can occur. In the final relaxation, the energy activated by the yoga class is supposed to spread throughout the body. It is therefore not complete without Shavasana, so Shavasana always forms the perfect conclusion. You breathe in slowly and deeply and let your body sink into the ground as you exhale. Relax a little more with each exhalation. Your mind will calm down; remain in this restful position throughout. Your entire body is fully aware of itself. Shavasana is pure relaxation, and that is exactly how you should experience it. This is especially important because during relaxation, stress hormones are broken down and endorphins are released. The immune system is strengthened, the circulation calms, peace of mind is restored, and healing processes are promoted. Shavasana can help with migraines and insomnia. Conclusion Shavasana is an asana that you should perform consciously in order to achieve and feel deep relaxation. If practiced correctly, you can reduce stress and release negative manifestations in the body. At its best, you will experience a feeling of deep peace and pure bliss. This is why Shavasana is considered one of the most profound and mysterious miracles in the field of yoga. Make sure that when you lie on your back on the mat, you are in a comfortable position. It is important to be present, as this is the fundamental prerequisite for a deepening that you consciously perceive and feel. You experience the body of your soul in a completely relaxed and silent way. Shavasana can therefore also significantly enrich meditation. Pregnant women should place their head and chest on a cushion, and people with back pain should place their calves at right angles on a chair. Image © fizkes / 123rf.com