Savasana is great way to begin and end your yoga practice.

I’m so happy to feature the popular yoga pose Savasana this month as a way to relax and renew. I have always loved this pose. It’s the perfect combination of restoring the body, being in the present moment and taking the opportunity to be still. It’s so important to take this time on the yoga mat, whether you have just practiced a few gentle stretches or a high intensity class. This month is an excellent time to focus on restoration, as I have definitely noticed changes in the world around me. It’s exciting and anxiety inducing at the same time, so I want to give myself time to breathe.

Savasana has a variety of benefits. The pose is known to help lower blood pressure, reduce headache, fatigue and insomnia. It also allows you to safely lie down, relax and calm the mind. I want to take time this month to find this complete state of relaxation on a regular basis, even if I only have 15 minutes. The feeling of renewal after a great savasana is worth it. If you are also interested in the chance to restore with this gratifying yoga pose, I have included the instructions to the pose below. Be sure to cover yourself with a blanket and/or add an eye pillow for maximum comfort!

SAVASANA 

Lie on your back with your feet relaxed and splayed apart. Your hands rest alongside the body with the palms facing upward. Tuck the chin. Allow your body to relax. Close your eyes and relax. Connect your mind and body with your breath. Get out of your head, bring yourself into the present. Focus on the rise and fall of your breath. Inhale love, exhale thank you. Hold the pose 15 minutes or longer as time allows.
If you have extra blankets or a yoga bolster, you can use these items to make yourself more comfortable in the pose. Place a folded blanket under the head. Slide a rolled blanket or bolster under the knees. Place a rolled blanket under the heels. Place a blanket under each arm.
To come out of the pose, bend one knee up into chest and then the other. Place the right hand under the nape of your neck, place the left hand on the left knee and roll gently to the right side into a cradle position. Breathe. Place the left hand on the floor in front of the body and use the strength of your left arm to sit up. Do not sit up directly from prone position.

Variation: If you are pregnant or have respiratory concerns and are unable to lie on the back, set up with bolsters and blankets for Savasana as pictured here:

Namaste!

Emily Parsons, Certified Let It Go Yoga teacher.

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