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SHAVASANA
RSY
Shavasana (corpse pose)
Lie flat on the back with the arms about 15 cm away from the body, palms facing upward. A thin pillow or folded cloth may be placed behind the head to prevent discomfort. Let the fingers curl up slightly. Move the feet slightly apart to a comfortable position and close the eyes. The head and spine should be in a straight line. Make sure the head does not fall to one side or the other. Relax the whole body and stop all physical movement. Become aware of the natural breath and allow it to become rhythmic and relaxed. Begin to count the breaths from number 27 backwards to zero. Mentally repeat, "I am breathing in 27,1 am breathing out 27,1 am breathing in 26,1 am breathing out 26", and so on, back to zero. If the mind wanders and the next number is forgotten, bring it back to the counting and start again at 27. If the mind can be kept on the breath for a few minutes the body
will relax. Duration: According to time available. In general, the longer
the better although a minute or two is sufficient between
asana practices. Awareness: Physical - first on relaxing the whole body, then
on the breath and counting.
Spiritual - on ajna chakra. Benefits: This asana relaxes the whole psycho-physiological
system. It should ideally be practised before sleep; before,
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