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Beginnerseated

Chair Savasana

कुर्सी शवासन

Chair Savasana is a seated relaxation posture that brings the profound benefits of Savasana to those who cannot lie on the floor. The practitioner sits comfortably with the feet flat, hands resting on the thighs or armrests, and systematically relaxes every part of the body. This variation is invaluable for office practice, seniors, those with respiratory conditions, and anyone needing a brief restorative pause during the day.

Anatomy Involved

Benefits

5

Avoid If

1
  • None — universally accessible

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Rounding the lower back — sit on a folded blanket if needed
Forcing the knees down — let gravity work naturally
Collapsing the chest and slouching forward
Tensing the neck and jaw
Rushing into the pose without proper alignment first
Holding tension — allow complete release in the supported position

Teaching Cues

For yoga teachers — verbal cues to guide students

6 cues
  • 1Sit on the front edge of your sitting bones
  • 2Lengthen the spine upward on each inhalation
  • 3Keep the chest lifted and shoulders relaxed
  • 4Ground down through the sitting bones
  • 5Maintain an elongated spine — avoid rounding the back
  • 6Surrender the weight of the body to the props and the floor

Pose Details

Helps With

anxietyinsomniahypertensionmigraineheart problems

Pose Type

restorative

Body Focus

full body

Focus Areas

relaxationbreathing

Best For

seniorsprenatalpostnatalkidsteensbeginnersdesk workersplus size

Yoga Styles

restorativeiyengarhatha

When to Practice

cool downrestorativeevening

Position

sitting

Modify If You Have

back pain

Ensure lower back is fully supported; use a blanket under the head/neck.

neck pain

Use a thin blanket or towel roll under the neck for support.

low blood pressure

Be mindful and come up slowly.

vertigo

Open eyes slowly, come up very gradually.

shoulder injury

Place arms in a comfortable position, perhaps supported by blankets.

Target Areas

Practice Flow

About this Pose

Chair Savasana is a seated relaxation posture that brings the profound benefits of Savasana to those who cannot lie on the floor. The practitioner sits comfortably with the feet flat, hands resting on the thighs or armrests, and systematically relaxes every part of the body. This variation is invaluable for office practice, seniors, those with respiratory conditions, and anyone needing a brief restorative pause during the day.

How to Practice

1

1. Sit comfortably on the chair.

2

2. Keep your spine straight and relax your shoulders.

3

3. Place your hands on your thighs, palms facing up.

4

4. Keep your feet flat on the floor or slightly apart.

5

5. Close your eyes or look downwards.

5 more steps remaining

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Modifications

Adaptive versions for different needs

Sukshma (Gentle)

Supported Chair Savasana

For: beginner

For added comfort, place a small cushion or rolled-up towel behind your lower back. This provides extra support and encourages deeper relaxation in Chair Savasana.

cushiontowel

Featured in Sequences

Practice Chair Savasana as part of these guided sequences

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about Chair Savasana

What is Chair Savasana?

Chair Savasana is a seated relaxation posture that brings the profound benefits of Savasana to those who cannot lie on the floor. The practitioner sits comfortably with the feet flat, hands resting on the thighs or armrests, and systematically relaxes every part of the body. This variation is invaluable for office practice, seniors, those with respiratory conditions, and anyone needing a brief restorative pause during the day.

What are the benefits of Chair Savasana?

Induces deep relaxation without lying down. Reduces stress, anxiety, and mental fatigue. Lowers blood pressure and heart rate. Accessible for office and workplace practice. Beneficial for those with respiratory conditions.

Who should avoid Chair Savasana?

Avoid this pose if you have: None — universally accessible.

How many steps are in Chair Savasana?

Chair Savasana is practiced in 10 steps. Sit comfortably on the chair.

Is Chair Savasana suitable for beginners?

Yes, Chair Savasana is a beginner-friendly pose suitable for all levels.

What props are needed for Chair Savasana?

You may use: chair, blanket. Props make the pose more accessible and comfortable.

What conditions does Chair Savasana help with?

Chair Savasana is therapeutic for: anxiety, insomnia, hypertension, migraine, heart problems.

What poses should I do before Chair Savasana?

Prepare with: Seated Tadasana, Baddha Konasana, Neck Rolls. These warm up the relevant muscles and joints.

Build Your Own Sequence

Combine Chair Savasana with other poses