Corpse Pose

Type: Restorative

Drishti – Eyes Closed

Counterpose – None

Benefits:

Physical – Reduces stress, restores nervous system, reduces fatigue, allows body to absorb yoga practice, and improves sleep

Mental - calms and centers the mind

Technique:

Lay on the back, with the eyes closed (or covered), let the legs splay comfortably apart, the feet relaxed. Surrender your legs and pelvis to the floor, letting gravity ground your body. The hands rest comfortably about 12-15 inches from the body, fingers curled softly, like a Childs'. Relax the abdomen, the chest, neck and throat, breathe deeply into the belly as it rises and falls with each inhalation and exhalation – feel the breath in the whole body and let yourself go. Relax the jaw, letting the tongue drop; relax the nostrils, the eyes and the forehead. Breathe – simple inhalation, simple exhalation, there is nothing else for you to do but be here with the breath. Remain in this posture for at least 10 minutes – this is a very important part of the yoga practice and must not be missed, it is vital to let the body settle. When you are ready, roll over to one side and take 5 more deep breaths; bring the body to a simple sitting posture at your own speed and remain here in quiet contemplation for a few moments.

Contraindications: if you are pregnant or have acute back pain, roll over to one side and remain in this posture with the knees curled into the chest. Come out at your own pace and in the way that is the safest for your body.