Shavasana – Corpse Pose(Power Yoga Pose)

The term Power Yoga was first coined in the 1990s, and many consider it to be the beginning of the “gym yoga” trend. Power Yoga is a fitness-based vinyasa practice. It consists of fifty-one asanas. Shavasana is the last asana in Power yoga.

Shavasana – Corpse Pose

Corpse pose is a yogic relaxation pose. The name comes from the Sanskrit words Shava meaning “corpse” and Asana meaning “posture”. Shavasana is the simplest and the main relaxation pose used in yoga. This is the last power yoga Pose.

In Shavasana, an emphasis is given to slow, rhythmic and relaxed breathing. The yogic breath is a complete breath done with full awareness. The abdomen, the chest, and the neck expand during a relaxed deep breath. As one relaxes more, the abdominal breathing is more prominent.

How to do Shavasana – Corpse Pose?

1. Lie down on the floor on your back.
2. Place your hands next to the body, slightly spread out with palms facing upwards.
3. Spread your legs at a slight angle and feel as relaxed as possible.
4. Consciously relax all the muscles in your body from head to toe.
5. Let your breathing be slow and deep. Focus your attention on your belly and observe the slow and rhythmic abdominal breathing.
6. You can maintain this position for as long as you need ranging from 5 – 30 minutes. Make sure you don’t sleep during the process.
7. To release this position, take a few deep breaths and slowly roll over to the side. Use your arms and raise yourself to the seated position.

Benefits 

1. Shavasana releases stress from all muscles in the body.
2. It relaxes the body and mind, giving a sense of well being.
3. Rejuvenates and rebuilds the body.
4. Decreases the heart rate, the rate of respiration and the blood pressure.
5. Reduces the metabolic rate, gives deep relaxation, reduces anxiety, alleviates mild depression and improves sleep.