Meditation for anxiety: Follow these three steps for relaxation

Six years ago I started a daily commitment to yoga. Now as a qualified yoga teacher, I still love to attend yoga classes as a student. Whenever I attend a yoga class, I'm always excited about Savasana. It doesn't matter what type of class it is or who is the teacher, Yoga always finishes with the same pose. Five years ago one of my yoga teachers emphasized that Savasana is the most important pose of all. How wonderful is that? The pose that requires you to stay still and do nothing. There is no twisting or balancing and I agree that is the most important one. Savasana is all about relaxation. When you are in this pose, everything around you comes to a full stop. It's like all the senses, and the body was on high alert in the class, and Savasana brings then to the balance. Today I want to recommend you do these three steps.  I have been using these steps as my relaxation guide to my Savasana. These simple tips will help you through achieving complete yogic relaxation. 1. Physical relaxation Start with lying on your back and take three slow even breaths. With each breath feel your body sinking downward pulled by gravity. Then scan your body and relax any body tension. You can say to yourself, "Relax". You can start with your feet, sense your feet, and say mentally,  "Relax." Then go up through your body, ankles, legs, knees, hips, back, pelvis, chest shoulders, arms, elbows, wrist, neck, head, face. 2. Mental relaxation Once you finish relaxing the whole body, then place your awareness in your breath. Feel how your breath starts at your nostrils and moves through your body. Pay attention to the length of your breath and melt into it. If your mind wanders, don't get frustrated. Just come back to your breathing. Continue to observe the flow of air moving in and out. You will focus on your exhalation to become calmer. 3. Visualize a peaceful place Lastly, visualize a relaxing place. Think about something that is calming to you. A beautiful meadow, a quiet lake or beach. Picture how things slow down in this place and how the environment is relaxed. Imagine yourself resting and enjoying the calmness. Continue your gentle breathing while you feel the peace. To come out of the pose, move your body slowly.  Sit in a comfortable position. If possible, try to keep your eyes closed. Spent a minute seated and continue gently breathing. Just sit still until your body feels awake and let your eyes decide when to open. Enjoy your yogic relaxation and savor it as long as possible. One quote "Savasana is being without was, being without will be. It is being without anyone who is." B.K.S. Iyengar One question for you Are you ready to take your Savasana to the next level? ----- If you're enjoying this podcast, please subscribe and/or leave a review. If you'd like more information or want to connect with me, visit https://happymeditator.com/