Rejuvenate in Savasana

Savasana (pronounced sha-VAH-suh-nuh) is one of the best gifts you can give yourself. Savasana, also known as corpse pose, can be one of the most challenging poses you might do. How difficult can it be to just lay there, completely still, you may think. It is very difficult to completely clear your mind. Although challenging, you will get there with practice.

Everything you need for Savasana can be found lying around the house. The basic form of Savasana requires only a quiet space and a comfortable surface to lie on. STOP. You do not need to practice yoga to enjoy and appreciate Savasana.

According to experts, if you stay in Savasana long enough, you will eventually experience three different stages. The first stage resembles a psychological let go. It takes about 10 mins to get to this stage. At first, you may feel like your mind is still very active and attached to thoughts and feelings. However, gradually the brain waves and the breath slow down, and the blood pressure drops.

As the mind and body surrender , the real Savasana can begin. During this second stage, awareness of the outside world begins to dim. You might hear sounds, but they won't disturb you. Instead, everything will start to drift farther and farther away. This is my favorite part of Savasana. It is for me, the most healing for my body and comforting for my mind. It is as if my body sleeps and my mind watches. This is where I can completely disconnect from my thoughts, the pressures of the day and the stress that everyday actvities have the potential of presenting.

The third and final state of Savasana occurs when the mind completely lets go. It is thought that the brain waves slow down to their lowest frequency. You will feel disconnected from the outside world. This is where a timer comes in handy, or if you are in a yoga class, the teacher will bring you back to the present. And, if you are in the comfort of your home and this state continues longer, enjoy.

Even if you don't practice yoga, you should treat yourself and open yourself to the experience of Savasana. Find a comfortable spot, lay down with a little pillow under your head, and if needed, a blanket or pillow under your knees - let your legs fall apart naturally and surrender... give yourself to the earth, let go of feelings, thoughts, emotions.... picture a bright light shining on you as if you are solar powered and this light is renenerging you.

~ Let your light shine

Pat