Savasana
Savasana is a final relaxation pose in yoga performed lying on your back. It promotes mental recovery, nervous system relaxation, and is an essential part of any yoga practice.
Instructions
- Lie flat on your back on a yoga mat or comfortable floor.
- Let your feet fall naturally to the sides with heels about 12 inches apart.
- Place your arms at your sides with palms facing upward.
- Allow your shoulders to relax away from your ears.
- Rest your head in a neutral position, with chin slightly tucked.
- Close your eyes and focus on natural breathing.
- Allow your entire body to relax completely into the floor.
- Remain in this position for 5-15 minutes, allowing mental and physical recovery.
Tips
- Savasana is the final pose in yoga practice and is essential for nervous system recovery.
- Use a yoga blanket or pillow under your head if needed for comfort.
- Cover yourself with a blanket to maintain body temperature during relaxation.
- Mental quietness is more important than physical stillness in this pose.
- This pose promotes parasympathetic nervous system activation and deep relaxation.
- Regular savasana practice improves sleep quality and stress management.
- This pose counteracts the activation of intense exercise and returns you to baseline.
Recommended starting values
Sensible novice starting points for each goal, for a lifter aged 25–40. Scale down for smaller frames or older lifters. Treat the first set of any session as a discovery set.
| Goal | Sets | Hold |
|---|---|---|
| Gain strength | 3 | 25 s |
| Build muscle | 3 | 40 s |
| Build endurance | 3 | 1 min |