Yoga Chikitsa · Primary · Finishing Sequence
Savasana
Corpse pose
What it is
Savasana, also called corpse pose or simply rest, closes every Ashtanga practice.
What it looks like
You lie on the back with the legs and arms relaxed slightly apart, palms up, and eyes closed. You stay still for several minutes.
Why it is practised
After the effort of the practice, rest gives the body and mind time to settle before returning to the day. It also marks a clear ending to the practice. Many students find it the moment when the effects of steady breathing are easiest to notice. A few minutes is usually enough, but it should not be rushed.
What to pay attention to
Let go of controlling the breath. Keep warm, as the body cools down quickly. Do not skip it — many teachers consider it an important part of practice.
Who it suits
Everyone. It is the one pose everyone can do fully.
This is the end of the Primary Series. See the Intermediate Series for what follows.
Lying on the back after the series; the work is rest, not more shape.
Practise this Primary pose in a Mysore-style room, or in a private session in Dubai or online.
See session formats, upcoming dates and the shala, or book a place with Ashtanga Yoga Dubai.