Why "Corpse Pose" Isn’t as Easy as It Seems and How to Master It

At the end of a yoga session, you’re often guided into Corpse Pose (Savasana) for deep relaxation. However, for many, this seemingly simple pose is anything but easy. If you’ve ever struggled to find comfort in Savasana, this article is for you!

What Happens in Your Body During Corpse Pose?

In Savasana, you lie on your back with your legs extended and slightly apart.
Your arms rest comfortably at your sides, palms facing upward, and your body relaxes completely, surrendering to gravity.

When you first settle into the pose, your motor neurons, which control skeletal muscles, are still firing. But as your breathing becomes steady, the neural impulses sent to your muscles start to diminish.

If your body is free from significant tension, within a minute or two, the impulses to smaller muscles—like those in your hands and toes—drop to zero. Over the next five minutes, the same happens to larger muscles in your arms, legs, and thighs.

As the rhythmic movement of your diaphragm deepens your relaxation, even the deeper muscles in your torso quiet down. Your connective tissues fully release, and any lingering pain or tension melts away. In this state, your body feels entirely at ease.

What If You Can’t Relax in Corpse Pose?

For some, lying in Savasana feels anything but relaxing. Perhaps you have a chronic issue like lower back pain, where the muscles around your spine remain tense to protect it. This tension may cause discomfort in your lower back, prompting a desire to bend your knees for relief. But you might hesitate, not wanting to stand out or appear different from others.

Instead, you suppress your discomfort, continuing to lie flat with extended legs, enduring the strain.

Here’s the truth: ignoring your body’s signals doesn’t help. In fact, it’s counterproductive! Your body is resisting relaxation because it’s under stress. You may not feel this tension as acutely when walking or moving, but in stillness, it becomes impossible to ignore.

Finding Comfort in Savasana

When discomfort takes over, your mind becomes restless, bouncing between frustration and the desire to escape. Your body simply isn’t ready to relax. What it needs instead is gentle recovery, movement, or stretching to release built-up tension.

 

If you struggle in Savasana, try modifying the pose for greater comfort. For example:

• Bend your knees and place your feet flat on the floor.
• Place a pillow or bolster under your knees to relieve lower back strain.
• Support your head and neck with a folded blanket or thick pillow.
• Rest your hands on your chest for added comfort.

It’s worth noting that most people instinctively sleep curled up on their side in a fetal position—one of the most natural, comforting postures for the body. This alignment provides a similar sense of safety and ease, mimicking the coziness of being in the womb.

Final Thoughts

Savasana is a journey of surrender, but it’s okay if your body needs a little help along the way. Modify the pose, listen to your body, and with time, you’ll find your way to true relaxation.