Yin Yoga: Corpse Pose (Savasana)

This short demonstration talks you through how to practice Savasana, or Corpse Pose. Savasana is the most important part of the practice, where we integrate all of the work that we've done and rejuvenate on every level. This is a video demonstration of the posture, which is covered in my audio course 'Yin Yoga For Beginners.' If you enjoy the practice and would like to go a little deeper, you might like to listen to the whole course.

Transcript

Today we're going to practice Shavasana. Shavasana, Or corpse pose, Is the position we lie into to relax at the end of the practice. And Shavasana is the most important posture. It's during Shavasana that our bodies integrate all of the work that we've done. This is a deeply restful posture, Where we do nothing but rest and integrate the benefits of the practice. So come down to lying on your back, And open your legs so that the feet fall towards the corners of the mat, A little wider than hip distance apart. Bring your arms to your sides, With the palms facing upwards. And now draw your shoulder blades together beneath you, So that the front of your chest and shoulders open. Tuck your chin slightly downwards to lengthen the back of your neck. This is Shavasana. If you're comfortable lying here like this, Then remain as you are. We'll be practicing Shavasana for five minutes, So you might want to put a blanket over yourself to keep warm, As your body temperature will drop. You can also support your body here by placing a rolled-up blanket under the ankles or the knees, And by placing a block or a pillow under the head. Take some time to make sure that you are comfortable. The purpose of this posture is to relax, So you don't want to feel any discomfort that will distract you from your relaxation. So support any uncomfortable parts of your body if you need to. And if you don't feel comfortable lying on your back, You might prefer to bring your feet to the mat, With your knees facing upwards. Take the feet to the sides of the mat, And then let the knees fall in towards each other. Often this can feel more comfortable if there's any tension in the lower back. And now just allow your body to relax. Feel the sensations that arise as your body relaxes completely into the mat beneath you. And for these next five minutes, Nothing is required of you. So permit yourself to relax completely, And to just be. Now slowly begin to reawaken your body. Make some movements with your fingers and your toes. Circle your wrists and your ankles. Take your arms above your head and give yourself a long stretch from your hands down to your feet. Bend your knees and bring the knees into the chest. Hug the knees towards you and rock gently from side to side, Easing out any remaining tension in the lower back. And when you're ready, Roll to your side and come up to sitting. Thank you for joining today's session.