Corpse Pose, or Savasana in Sanskrit, is a deep, relaxing and restorative yoga pose. It encourages the practitioner to completely surrender, letting every muscle relax into the mat. Oftentimes used at the very end of a practice, this pose is known to reduce stress, lower blood pressure, and promote a sense of inner peace and tranquility. Although a simple, low-effort pose, it requires deep mental effort of simply being.
How do you do Corpse Pose?
Step 1.
Lie down on your back with arms at your sides, palms facing up.
Step 2.
Extend your legs straight out in front of you, as wide as the mat. Allow your inner legs to externally rotate towards the outer legs, feet fall naturally out to the sides.
Step 3.
Close your eyes and relax the body.
Step 4.
To come out, slowly bring awareness back to your body. Wiggle your fingers and toes, stretch your arms overhead, and gently roll to your side. Take a few deep breaths on your side before sitting up.
Benefits of Corpse Pose
This pose promotes deep relaxation of the body and mind
Resets the body to a neutral position and integrates the physical practice
Calms the nervous system and reduces stress by shifting the body into the parasympathetic ``rest and digest`` state
Calms central nervous system, aiding the digestive and immune systems
Variations of Corpse Pose
Blocks or bolsters can be placed under knees to support the low back or a blanket under the head to support the cervical spine
Legs on a Chair or Wall: Place your legs on a chair or against a wall for support.
Variations can be taken with arms/legs to enhance your comfort
Other Yoga Poses to Try
- 05Feb
Plank Pose
Plank Pose, or Phalakasana in Sanskrit, is a fundamental yoga posture that builds core strength, stability, and endurance. It requires full-body effort, engaging the abdominal muscles, shoulders, arms, and legs. Holding this pose requires focus and intentional breathwork. This yoga
- 05Jun
Shoulder Stand
Shoulder Stand, or Sarvangasana in Sanskrit, is a revered inversion that is often referred to as the “queen of all poses” due to its wide-ranging benefits. This yoga pose strengthens the upper body and core, enhancing flexibility in the neck
- 03Oct
Hero’s Pose
Hero’s Pose, or Virasana in Sanskrit, is a seated yoga posture that promotes stillness and grounding. It stretches the quadriceps, knees, and ankles while promoting an upright and open posture through the spine and chest. While simple in nature, this
- 07Oct
Happy Baby
Happy Baby, or Ananda Balasana in Sanskrit, is a playful, restorative yoga pose that encourages gentle stretching and relaxation. This posture targets the inner thighs, hips, and lower back, helping to release tension and create a sense of openness throughout
- 14May
Revolved Head to Knee Pose
Revolved Head to Knee Pose, or Parivrtta Janu Sirsasana in Sanskrit, is a seated twisting yoga pose that combines side stretch, forward fold, and spinal rotation. It stretches the hamstrings, hips, and spine, while also opening the chest and side
- 29Apr
Chair Pose
The Chair Pose, or Utkatasana in Sanskrit, embodies strength, stability, and grounding. It requires engagement of the leg muscles, core, and glutes to maintain a sense of balance and stability. The yoga practitioner should feel as if they’re sitting in
- 23Dec
Revolved Half Moon
Revolved Half Moon, or Parivrtta Ardha Chandrasana in Sanskrit, is a challenging yoga pose that combines balance, strength, and flexibility. This pose engages the core and leg muscles while promoting spinal rotation and opening through the chest and shoulders.
