Supine poses sequenced at the end of the practice are like a physical cool-down after a workout. They integrate the whole body, they’re supported by the floor and they prepare the body for settling into savasana. Teach supine poses with the same value that you apply to any of the other poses and be sure to include at least one in your practice. Supine poses include passive inversions, hip openers and reclined twists. Supine poses will help students settle their mind and relax after the physical tension of an asana practice.
When teaching supine poses,
- Offer lots of props if necessary.
- Include long pauses of silence between your instructions
- Notice if students seem uncomfortable. Offer alternative poses. This isn’t the part of the practice where discomfort is helpful
