Corpse PoseSavasana

Savasana, or Corpse Pose, is the final deep-relaxation posture of a yoga practice. You lie flat on your back, arms a little away from the body with palms up, and let every part soften while the breath returns to its natural rhythm. It invites the body to rest and the mind to grow quiet after movement. A simple, restorative close to any session, taught with care, women-first, in Kolathur.

1. 1

   Settle onto your back

   Sit with knees bent and feet on the floor, then slowly lie back and extend the legs along the mat, a comfortable distance apart.

   • Hold
2. 2

   Position the body

   Rest the arms a little away from the sides with palms facing up. Let the feet drop open and keep the head centred so it does not roll to either side.

   ↓ Exhale
3. 3

   Relax completely

   Soften the face, jaw, shoulders, belly and legs. Release any holding and allow the floor to fully support you while you stay still.

   • Hold
4. 4

   Return gently

   To finish, deepen the breath, wiggle the fingers and toes, draw the knees in, and roll to one side before sitting up slowly.

   • Hold

The breath leads the movement: inhale as you open and lift, exhale as you fold and lower. One full round repeats the sequence leading with the other leg.

• ✓Activates the body's relaxation response and helps ease stress
• ✓Lets the heart rate and breathing slow into a restful rhythm
• ✓Releases muscular tension built up during practice
• ✓Supports recovery and reduces post-practice stiffness
• ✓Calms the mind and helps integrate the benefits of the session

• In later pregnancy, rest on your side rather than flat on the back
• If lying flat is uncomfortable for the back, support the knees with a bolster
• Rise slowly to avoid light-headedness, especially if prone to low blood pressure

This is general guidance, not medical advice. If in doubt, check with your doctor.

Reviewed by Sailaja Anand, yoga instructor at Anand Yoga Centre. Last updated 2026-06-14.