Savasana, also known as corpse pose, is one of the most appealing poses to many yogis. However, as simple as it might seem to lay down on your back, close your eyes and relax, this pose can be very challenging.

Letting go of your thoughts and quieting the mind as you try to relax your physical body can be difficult. As soon as you start thinking about not thinking, you can’t stop thinking about trying not to think. Don’t think of a purple elephant…Are you thinking of it?

When I lead my students through savasana I tell them to stop paying attention to their deep breaths and to breath naturally. And then I remind them to relax each of their body parts, starting with the toes to the crown of the head. I do this same thing when I am trying to lay still in savasana in my own practice.

Your mind may still be full of thoughts, but maybe you can quiet or soften those thoughts so they are not as prominent.

Maybe you can focus on how you are feeling at the moment. Or even channel a certain loved one who comes to mind that you can focus this energy on.

Instead of running out of your yoga class before savasana or counting your breaths until the teacher finally lets you sit up, try relaxing each limb of your body and hush the thoughts just a little bit.

Be kind to your body after a strong practice and enjoy your final resting pose.