You enjoyed the yoga class of downward facing dog, warrior one, two and three poses and now it is time to settle into savasana (corpse pose) but this day is booked with “things to do” and you skip savasana. You’ve done the essential yoga poses, right? It’s time to get on with the day or get home to finish up the day. How important can relaxing on the floor be?

It is the most important pose in yoga.

Being still has always been hard but it is especially challenging in a fast moving world where the brain is receiving constant stimuli from phone, TV and computer. Even gas station pumps have mini TV screens with commercial chatter as you fill the gas tank!

There are rare moments of quiet during the day filled with work, family, children and chores. Lying on the floor is not going to complete any of those tasks. Being still is not productive and it is vital that you are productive 24/7. That pervasive attitude results in significant chronic physical, mental and emotional damage.

Savasana is the integration of all the poses, breathwork and mindfulness. It is the imprinting of the physical work into the brain and body. It allows the body to rejuvenate after the physical poses and there is a release of endorphins that helps us to feel good. If you rush out, skipping savasana, you lose out on this benefit.

More frequently than ever in the news are stories about the rise in poor mental health across all populations and ages. The rate of suicides is increasing. In our overstimulated society, it is vital to make time for quiet to allow the brain to process and rest. And since quiet time is devalued in our society, it is important to participate in savasana during yoga class.

In being still and quiet, the mind opens and emotions may rise to the surface. Sometimes, these emotions have been buried for a long time or they may be fresh; regardless they are difficult to face. In those moments, tears may trickle out. Most people don’t want to be seen crying in a yoga class. Some students quit yoga for this reason alone which is unfortunate because this is healing happening - sitting with the tough stuff going on in your life. Recognizing it. Feeling it. Making space for it.

Some students look forward to savasana almost like a reward at the end of the class. Others fidget, frequently look at their watch, or prepare to leave by collecting their belongings. Others exit the class early. Savasana is challenging for everyone because being quiet without external noise means we have to sit with ourselves. That can be the most challenging task.

Your growth in yoga isn’t about whether you nailed Warrior Three today but in the integration and awareness of your emotional, mental and physical bodies. The journey allows you to acknowledge how you are at the moment. To sit with yourself, however you are, with kindness in the heart.

To recognize that each of us is enough just as we are and to radiate that kindness.

Namaste,

Agnes