These days many people are practicing Hatha yoga postures and routines as a form of fitness to build strength and flexibility of the outer body, they may be getting some improved psychological benefits as well, but are they taking time to focus on the inner body?
We humans have an incredible inner body full of many complex systems including nerves, glands, organs, blood and lymphatic circulation, digestion and elimination.
The actions of the yoga postures are not only flexing and extending muscles to improve posture and relieve stiffness, they are also playing an important role in the function of the inner body which provides optimum health.
Yoga postures squeeze and release internal organs which aid in detoxification, glands which distribute necessary hormones to balance metabolism and can soften the aging processes, stretching nerves to improve electrical conduction, rotating joints which produces lubricating synovial fluid, and deep breathing which improves lung and cardio vascular health, oxygenating the blood which carries nutrients to cells.
The focus of yoga asanas (postures) is not only for creating a beautiful form, they were designed to keep all systems functioning properly so that we can enjoy a better quality of life. It is a holistic practice which attends to the needs of all that it means to be living as a human, to create balance and live in accordance with the laws of nature. To address the mind there is a philosophy which can guide us through life. The philosophy of yoga can be applied to all faiths, because yoga is a science not a religion.
We may practice very active asanas when we are feeling energetic and healthy, but if we have days when we are tired, nervous or unwell we can change to a more passive practice to suit our needs which can leave us feeling calm, refreshed and in a more positive mental state . As we age we need to adapt our yoga practice according to the changes that occur over time.
An important part of our physical yoga practice is "not being active" this is the still quiet time at the completion of the physical movements which is called Savasana in Sanskrit . It means "as relaxed as a lifeless body, or Corpse pose."
Savasana looks simple enough, but it can be one of the most challenging parts of the yoga practice for some people because it requires us to let go of the body and the mind, without falling asleep. We become "consciously relaxed"
Savasana is a good exercise in conscious awareness and detachment, when desiring to learn meditation.
I would highly recommend the guidance of an experienced teacher to share a method of how to relax into Savasana. Each teacher has their own unique way of guiding people into conscious relaxation, or you can find a video or download on line.
Using soft relaxation music is often a good way for some people to start because it can help distract the mind from thoughts.
First we learn to observe and regulate the breath, then all body parts while consciously releasing tension. Choosing a method from a variety of techniques we can learn to identify where we hold physical tension and consciously release it.
The mind is then equally addressed, learning to relax and release thoughts without sleeping but rather resting in our natural thoughtless state. All body systems are governed by the brain so
when the mind relaxes the brain waves slow down and this allows the body a deeper and more complete releasing.
When the entire body is relaxed and soft, the joints, muscles, nervous system and internal organs can rest in their correct anatomical position and space is created right down to the cellular level. This allows oxygenated blood to rush through the entirety of all systems flushing out toxic waste and replenishing cells with nutrients and hormones which have been secreted from the massaged glands.This action contributes to cellular regeneration.
Muscle cells are flushed removing toxic acid which prevents stiffness. The cartilages of the joints especially those of the spine are bathed in synovial fluid which maintains resilience and can flush out inflammation. Digestion and elimination are greatly improved. The brain is flooded with endorphins which leaves us with a wonderful euphoric feeling after wards and can help improve sleep and mood disorders.
These are just a few of the benefits gained from practicing Savasana.
When planning time for your yoga asana practice be sure to make an extra 5 - 10 minutes into consideration and enjoy a balanced experience. Your inner body and general health will improve greatly.
Savasana can also be done as a practice on it's own without having to do the yoga postures first, it helps to calm the nervous system and provide mental rejuvenation during a busy or stressful time. Try it at home or at work if you have the space to lie down and stretch out freely. If you are working with a team, it could be a beneficial break for the entire group which could help to increase productivity.
"Your Wellness is my Business"
Brenda E. Bell
www.brendabell.ca
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