Relaxation Postures In Yoga

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Relaxation postures in yoga or yoga poses for relaxation in Yoga are extremely crucial parts of every yoga practice. They should be performed before and after the asana session and at any time when the body becomes tired. This group of asanas is concerned with consciously releasing the tension in all the muscles. Relaxation postures in yoga, also known as restorative yoga, are poses that help to promote relaxation and release tension in the body. These postures are typically done with the support of props such as blankets, bolsters, and blocks, and are held for an extended period of time to allow the body to fully relax.

List of Relaxation Postures in Yoga

The following is a list of relaxation postures in yoga.

S NoSanskrit NameEnglish NameBase Position
1ShavasanaCorpse poseLying on back
2AdvasanaReverse corpse poseLying on front/stomach
3JyestikasanaSuperior postureLying on front/stomach
4MakarasanaCrocodile poseLying on front/stomach
5Matsya KridasanaFlapping fish poseLying in prone position
List of relaxation postures

Chart of Relaxation Postures

1. Shavasana

Corpse Pose In Yoga - Shavasana, how to do Corpse Pose In Yoga - Shavasana, benefits of Corpse Pose In Yoga - Shavasana, precautions.
Corpse Pose (Shavasana)

2. Advasana

Reversed Corpse Pose In Yoga - Advasana, how to do Reversed Corpse Pose In Yoga - Advasana, benefits of Reversed Corpse Pose In Yoga - Advasana, and precautions.
Reversed Corpse Pose (Advasana)

3. Jyestikasana

Superior Posture In Yoga - Jyestikasana
Superior Posture (Jyestikasana)

4. Makarasana

Crocodile Pose In Yoga - Makarasana, how to do Crocodile Pose In Yoga - Makarasana, benefits of Crocodile Pose In Yoga - Makarasana, precautions.
Crocodile Pose (Makarasana)

5. Matsya Kridasana

Flapping Fish Pose In Yoga - Matsya Kridasana, how to do Flapping Fish Pose In Yoga - Matsya Kridasana, benefits of Flapping Fish Pose In Yoga - Matsya Kridasana, precautions.
Flapping Fish Pose (Matsya Kridasana)

Benefits of Relaxation Postures

After the body is worked out, stretched and opened, the body has to let go of all the tension. Constant postural abnormalities put excess strain on the muscles of the back and just lying down does not relieve it. This is where poses for relaxation or relaxation asanas come in. These relaxation practices, which are done in the prone position, are very relaxing to the spine and related structures. They are especially recommended for any back/spinal problem. The following is a complete list of benefits of relaxation postures in yoga.

  1. Reduced Stress and Anxiety: Relaxation postures in yoga can help to reduce stress and anxiety by promoting a state of deep relaxation and calmness.
  2. Improved Sleep: By helping to relax the mind and body, yoga relaxation postures can improve sleep quality and promote better sleep patterns.
  3. Lowered Blood Pressure and Heart Rate: The practice of yoga relaxation postures has been shown to lower blood pressure and heart rate, which can reduce the risk of heart disease and stroke.
  4. Improved Flexibility: Relaxation postures in yoga can help to improve flexibility and mobility in the muscles and joints, reducing the risk of injury and promoting overall physical wellbeing.
  5. Reduced Muscle Tension: By releasing tension in the muscles, yoga relaxation postures can help to alleviate pain and discomfort in the body.
  6. Improved Mood: Yoga relaxation postures can help to improve overall mood and reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety.
  7. Increased Focus and Concentration: By promoting relaxation and reducing stress, yoga relaxation postures can improve focus and concentration, leading to increased productivity and better cognitive function.

When to practice Relaxation Asanas or Relaxation Postures

  •  These postures can be adopted during any time of the day for any comfortable duration. 
  • They can be combined with relaxing daily activities as well.
  • They are ideal postures right before going to sleep.