This prevents the generation of a reflex impulse froih the brain and in the absence of this the devitalized part remains completely relaxed. By this process not only are all the voluntary muscles relaxed, but at the same time that concentration of the mind is achieved which is so highly prized by spiritual culturists for developing further the more advanced and spiritual stages of Yoga. When success in relaxing the muscles of the different parts of the body has been achieved, then an effort should be made to relax the muscles of the whole body at the same time. This is the true aim of Shavasana. With perfect relaxation of all the muscles of the body, the breathing becomes slower and shallower and the body becomes like a corpse. Whether the body is perfectly relaxed or not can be tested by telling some one to lift after a stipulated period either the forearm or a leg to a certain height and then let it go. If the body is in a truly relaxed condition, the limb raised will fall to the ground like a dead-weight. Retain the pose from three to six minutes taking into consideration the fact that in this pose the time seems abnormally long.

This pose, if rightly practiced, is extremely refreshing after any kind of exertion and is so soothing to the nerves that sleep is often induced during its practice. This tendency to go to sleep should be checked very determinately. As a therapeutic measure Shavasana should be practiced to reduce high blood pressure and for the cure of neurasthenia.

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