What is Savasana and why do we do it?
Savasana is a posture in yoga that is practiced at the end of a yoga session. It involves lying flat on your back with your arms and legs relaxed, palms facing up, and eyes closed.
During Savasana, the primary focus is on deep relaxation and surrender. It allows the body to rest and integrate the benefits of your preceding yoga practice. It is a time for both physical and mental release, promoting a state of calmness and rejuvenation.
While in Savasana, practitioners are encouraged to let go of any physical tension, thoughts, worries or distractions. It is a time to consciously relax each part of the body, letting the floor support you fully. The breath becomes natural and effortless, and the mind is encouraged to enter a state of stillness and peace.
You remain awake in Savasana as it is a conscious relaxation practice. It provides an opportunity to observe the body, breath and mind without judgment or attachment. It is a space to connect with oneself, to cultivate mindfulness and allow the body to replenish it’s energy. You may be asked in Savasana to imagine yourself resting on a cloud, to allow your body to dissolve into the surface beneath you or to imagine yourself simply floating on a calm pool of water.
The duration of Savasana may vary depending on the yoga class or personal preference, but it typically lasts for a few minutes, allowing sufficient time for complete relaxation. It is considered a vital and essential part of yoga practice, offering a profound sense of rest and rejuvenation.
A script for Savasana looks a bit like this:
As we come to the final and most tranquil part of our practice, Savasana. Allow your feet to fall naturally to the sides, palms facing up.
As you settle into stillness, bring your awareness to your body. Notice any areas of tension or discomfort. With each breath, consciously release and let go of any tightness, allowing your body to surrender to the support of the mat beneath you
Feel the gentle rise and fall of your chest with each inhalation and exhalation. As you breathe in, imagine you are inhaling peace, and as you exhale, envision letting go of any lingering thoughts or worries.
This is your time to fully relax and rejuvenate. Allow your mind to become quiet, letting go of any mental chatter or distractions. If thoughts arise, simply observe them without judgment and gently bring your focus back to your breath.
As your body and mind settle into stillness, bring your attention to the present moment. Allow yourself to embrace the feeling of surrender and complete letting go.
Now, bring your awareness to your emotions. Allow yourself to experience whatever arises without attachment or resistance. Embrace any feelings of peace, joy, or gratitude that may arise during this moment of Savasana.
Know that you have dedicated this time to nourish your mind, body, and soul. As you continue to rest here, embrace the stillness and the deep peace that resides within you.
(Pause)
Becoming aware of the space around you and how you feel in this moment, begin to wake the body with gentle movement of finger tips and toes and in your own time slowly press yourself up to a seated position.
Place your hands, one on top of the other to your heart centre, acknowledging the divine light within you.
Thank you for joining me in this practice, from my heart to yours, Namaste.
Be as creative as you like with your script, you may wish to incorporate a poem, a reading or a short story. Music is a wonderful tool to assist in relaxation. Savasana is a time to rest and reflect, uniting body mind and soul. Enjoy this time and your journey.
Katherine x