Embracing Stillness: December's Focus & Pose of the Month – Savasana
As the year winds down and the holiday buzz ramps up, we invite you to pause, breathe, and surrender into the art of stillness. December is the perfect time to reconnect with yourself, and that's why we're spotlighting Savasana (Corpse Pose) as our Pose of the Month. Often underestimated, this resting pose embodies profound simplicity and the essence of yoga itself: union and release.
Why Savasana?
Savasana is more than just lying down at the end of class; it’s a practice of letting go. It teaches us how to integrate movement, breath, and intention into a moment of stillness. Amid the hustle of holiday shopping, gatherings, and year-end reflections, Savasana serves as a reminder to stop and savor the present moment.
While it isn’t part of the 8 limbs of yoga, it embodies all 8 limbs at once by allowing you to integrate the benefits of the physical postures (asana), mindful breathing (pranayama), and sensory withdrawal (pratyahara) while actively cultivating a state of stillness and awareness, which are key elements of the later limbs like dharana (concentration) and dhyana (meditation) by the end of a yoga practice; essentially acting as a bridge between the physical practice and the more subtle energy aspects of yoga.
Physically, this pose encourages full-body relaxation, promoting recovery and calming the nervous system. Mentally, it offers a space to declutter the mind, fostering clarity and inner peace.
How to Practice Savasana
Set the Scene: Lie flat on your back, allowing your arms and legs to rest comfortably. Palms face upward, signaling openness and receptivity.
Alignment Matters: Support your lower back with a bolster or adjust your head with a folded blanket if needed to ensure comfort.
Breathe Naturally: Let your breath flow without force. Each exhale is an invitation to release tension and sink deeper into the mat.
Let Go: Release the urge to control or plan. Imagine melting into the earth beneath you.
Savasana Beyond the Mat
As we embrace Savasana in our December classes, let its lessons extend into your daily life. Can you find a moment of stillness amidst chaos? Can you consciously relax even when your to-do list feels endless? Savasana reminds us that restoration is not indulgence—it’s essential.
Join Us This Month
Throughout December, our teachers will emphasize the beauty of Savasana in every class. Expect guided relaxations, breathwork, and meditative practices tailored to deepen your connection with this transformative pose.
Let’s close out the year together with the grace of surrender and the gift of presence.
Namaste,
Cathy