SHAVASANA

Shavasana is also called ‘Mrutasana’. This asana is very useful for meditation, Pranayama, Japa, etc. This asana should precede other asanas. It should be performed at intervals and also at the end. This asana relaxes the muscles and the blood vessels. Though this asana appears simple, it is one of the most difficult to master. The practice of this asana aims at releasing the mind from the body. This asana is Yogic relaxation in the shortest possible time. Relaxation of the body and the mind is necessary in this modern age of commotion and materialism. Shavasana has been accepted as a remedy for psychosomatic diseases caused on account of competitive and tumultuous life.

Technique : Lie flat on the back. Place the hands a little away from the thighs with the palms up. Keep the eyes and the fists slightly closed. Stretch the legs out. Keep the heels together and the toes apart. Now close the eyes and breathe very slowly. Begin by consciously and gradually relaxing each part and each muscle of the body : feet, calves, knees, thighs, abdomen and hips. Then relax the muscles of the back, chest, arms, fingers, neck, head face in that order. Inhale and exhale slowly and deeply. Relax the brain during exhalation. Direct your attention to the breathing, to the soul and to God. Retain the meditation for 10 to 15 minutes. In this posture, one finds true relaxation and experiences rest, peace and plenitude. Those who suffer from excessive mental stress or heart-disease must practice only Shavasana regularly every day.

Advantages : (1) Posture and meditation are Co-Ordinated in shavasana. Shavasana pacifies the body and the mind.

(2) In Shavasana, all parts of the body –skin, muscles and nerves – are relaxed.

(3) The muscles after strenuous exercise. Need relaxation and rest. This asana gives certain prompt and complete relaxation and rest to the muscles.

(4) it helps the body and the mind to recuperate after a long and serious illness. Shavasana is invigorating and refreshing.

(5) This asana helps to cure the disease such as insomnia, high or low blood pressure and indigestion. The blood circulation becomes regular.

(6) it gives prompt relief to those who suffer from heart trouble and mental stress and strain.

(7) it stimulates the circulation of blood in the entire body and one feels refreshing.

(8) the constant practice of this asana helps one to control anger.

In view of the benefits mentioned above, every aspirant of yoga should perform this asana regularly every day.