Shavasana

Shavasana is also called "Mrutasana". This asana is very useful for meditation, pranayama, japa, etc. It should be performed at intervals and also at the end. This asana relaxes the muscles and the blood vessels. Simply let the muscles relax, feel the circulation the system and be attuned to cosmic energies. The practice of this asana aims at releasing the mind from the body. This asana is yogic relaxation in the shortest possible time.Shavasana has been accepted as a remedy for psychosomatic diseases caused on account of competitive and tumultuous life. It has been seen that most of the people drift off to sleep while doing shavasana and fail to attain the "conscious" part of the posture.

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 and face in that order.
• Inhale and exhale slowly and deeply. Relax the brain during exhalation.
• Retain the meditation for ten to fifteen 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.
• Slowly bring yourself back up in to a sitting position.

Benefits of Shavasana :

• Posture and meditation are co-ordinated in shavasana. Shavasana pacifies the body and the mind.
• The constant practice of this asana helps one to control anger.
• It gives prompt relief to those who suffer from heart trouble and mental stress and strain.
• In Shavasana, all parts of the body- skin, muscles and nerves-are relaxed.
• It stimulates the circulation of blood in the entire body and one feels refreshing.
• The muscles after strenuous exercise need relaxation and rest. This asana gives certain prompt and complete relaxation and rest to the muscles.
• This asana helps to cure the diseases such as insomnia, high or low blood pressure and indigestion, asthma, constipation, diabetes, lumbago.
• It helps the body and the mind to recuperate after a long and serious illness. Shavasana is invigorating and refreshing.
• All those who are prone to anxiety will find the asana to be quite beneficial.
• Improve his focus and concentration power.

Cautions :

• Never ever perform this asana under glaring light.
• Make sure the surface , on which you are lying down is firm and flat.
• Resist the urge to yawn at any stage of the asana.
• At any point of time while performing the asana, do not keep your hands under your head or on your chest.