Have you ever wondered why we lie down at the end of a yoga class? In this episode, I take you on a journey into the depths of Shavāsana, far beyond just a moment of rest. I share two incredible mythological stories that reveal how this “corpse pose” is really about surrender, rebirth, and transformation. Shavāsana isn’t about taking a nap; it’s about returning—returning to awareness, essence, and the source.
As I revisit these ancient stories, you’ll discover how Shiva and Kali each played a part in shaping this sacred stillness and why this often-overlooked pose deserves as much respect as any peak posture in class. Whether you’re a teacher or a student, this episode will inspire you to reclaim Shavāsana as more than a cool-down; it’s a practice of letting go.
Shavāsana Episode Highlights:
- Reflecting on the popularity of mythical pose stories and listener feedback
- Why Shavāsana is misunderstood and often rushed through in modern yoga
- Origin of the term and its deeper meaning: corpse as a sacred pause, not an end
- Myth of Shiva and the sages: how surrender transforms death into awareness
- Myth of Kali and Raktabeej: how desire and compulsion multiply, and the power of stillness to stop it
- The symbolic death of Shavāsana: letting go of ego, effort, and identity
- Practical tips for teachers: honoring Shavāsana as the culmination of practice
Resources and Links Mentioned:
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