Shavasana is also called ‘Mrutasana’. This asana is very useful n meditation, Pranayama, Japa, etc. This asana should precede her asanas. It should be performed at intervals and also at the ‘ This asana relaxes the muscles and the blood-vessels. Though this asana appears simple, it is one of the most difficult to master. ‘the practice of this asana aims at releasing the mind from the hody. This asana is Yogic relaxation in the shortest possible time. Relaxation of the body and the mind is necessary in this modern age of commotion and materialism. Shavasana has been accepted s a remedy for psychosomestic diseases caused on account of competitive and tumultuous life.
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. Direct your attention to the breathing, to the soul and to God. 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 practise only Shavasana regularly every day.
mind in a sound body’. The whole system of their education was based on this principle.
