Because we normally move our bodies around, the movements of the mind are not so apparent. But when we learn to hold the pose and remain still, suddenly, we notice clearly how agitated the mind is.
Savasana, or basic relaxation pose, is one of the most important and ancient poses in yoga. The practice of savasana or corpse pose, is meditative. It can be the doorway to deeper states of meditation and gives the student the most important gift that can be given. This gift is called disidentification.
In Chapter I of the Yoga Sutras, Patanjali discusses the false identification of thoughts and Self. He teaches that this false identification is at the root of all misery. He further teaches that yoga practices are about dissolving this false identification. The great gift of savasana is that the student can begin to separate from his/her thoughts. As one moves more deeply through relaxation, one begins to enter another state in which thought is experienced as a surface phenomenon. Then, one can begin to experience a little space between the thought and what is perceived as the Self.
One teacher has said, “The problem with our thoughts is that we believe them.” The problem with believing our thoughts is that we then act from them in a way that can cause suffering in ourselves and others. When a little space is experienced between one’s thoughts and the consciousness, which is the background for thought, then thought does not have the same power. Thus, with this dis-identification comes choice. When one dis-identifies with the thought, one can choose to act from that thought or not; it no longer has as much power to control. When one can act from choice, this leads to freedom. The gift of beginning to understand the process of dis-identification is arguably the most powerful gift one can receive.
Staying still is a powerful practice. When one learns to hold savasana, one learns to let the stillness of the body become a backdrop for the constant movement of the mind. This art of consciously staying still begins to teach the art of meditation. Join us and dedicate yourself to savasana and learning how to just be. This class will leave you feeling rejuvenated, de-stressed and mentally clear.
PLEASE NOTE: We encourage pre-registration for all programming. Registering in advance guarantees your spot and helps the studio have adequate staffing. If fewer than 5 participants register the event may be canceled.
Refund Policy: We understand that life happens and unforeseen circumstances come up. If life offers up an unexpected event and you need to withdraw from the workshop:
- A full refund will be issued if you need to withdraw 4+ days before the workshop. Please reach out for your refund, as it will not be automatically applied to your account.
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If you need to withdraw within 3 days or fewer, no refund is provided.
Please create a Mindbody account for each participant if registering more than 1 person. If you have any questions regarding registration, or financial aid, please email Kelsey at kelsey@ashevillecommunityyoga.org
