Savasana

Savasana (Corpse Pose) is the final pose in virtually every yoga class. Lying flat on the back with limbs slightly apart, palms facing up, eyes closed — it is the culminating integration of the entire practice. While appearing to be the easiest pose, experienced practitioners often say Savasana is the hardest.

Why It's Difficult

The difficulty of Savasana is not physical but mental: remaining completely still and awake, neither sleeping nor thinking, for 5-10 minutes challenges the untrained mind profoundly. Most people either fall asleep (the mind and body are tired) or the mind wanders ceaselessly through planning and rumination.

The practice is conscious rest — aware but not active, present but not engaging with thoughts.

Why It's Essential

The physiological rationale for Savasana is compelling: the practice session creates a stress response (raising heart rate, blood pressure, and cortisol). Savasana allows these systems to return to baseline, converting the physiological changes from practice into lasting adaptation.

Ending a yoga practice without Savasana is like ending a workout without a cool-down — the benefits are reduced.

Typical Duration

• 5 minutes: Brief but valuable even in shorter classes
• 7-10 minutes: Standard in a 60-90 minute class
• 20-30 minutes: In dedicated restorative or Yoga Nidra sessions

Comfort Matters

Savasana cannot be practiced well if uncomfortable. Practitioners often add:

• A small folded blanket under the head
• A bolster under the knees (reduces lower back strain)
• A blanket over the body (temperature drops in stillness)
• An eye pillow for light-blocking and gentle pressure

A thick, soft mat is ideal for the extended lying position.