We all could use a savasana every day…I could probably use a couple! Savasana is Sanskrit and literally means “corpse pose”. While it may sound a little creepy when translated that way, savasana is simply a small period of time to rest your mind, body and spirit. Lying in corpse pose on your yoga mat at the end of class (on your back, arms down at your sides, palms facing upward) and listening to some kind of calm and relaxing music has an amazing affect on the body. Eye pillows can also be used (the scented ones are my favorite!)

Here at YoGalore, we call our savasana “Rest & Relax”. It’s such a wonderful way to end our time together after a fun, active and educational experience.

Taking time out to relax and unwind slows down the heart rate, lowers blood pressure and helps to alleviate stress. While great for adults, children can also benefit from it. We use it in yoga class, but it can easily be incorporated into naptime or bedtime routine. This can be wonderful for children who are often very excitable and may have difficulty calming their body down. Savasana can be used anytime you think your child needs a few moments to rest/switch gears, whether it’s a home or classroom setting.

If a child is having trouble lying still and calming themselves while in savasana, try reading a book during this time or make it only a minute or two to start with and then gradually start increasing the amount of time as needed. Or try singing a lullaby-type song while lying there with your little one. You could also make a sensory bottle for your child to look at while trying to keep calm. Try using a small stuffed animal (a “breathing buddy”) to place on your child’s belly. When they breathe in and out, the stuffed animal rises and falls. It can be a nice distraction while they are trying to be still.

And don’t forget to end your Rest & Relax with a soothing “Namaste”.