Symmetry
Often in savasana the limbs are carefully placed to be symmetrical when viewed from the
outside. This can conflict with the body’s kinesthetic (proprioceptive) feedback because what
looks symmetrical is not what always feels symmetrical. We can negotiate this contrast in
inner and outer experience in a variety of ways.
It can sometimes be useful to align the structures as symmetrically as possible and then
see if you can receive the kinesthetic feedback of the sensations of asymmetry without
needing to respond. Perhaps your proprioceptors can even adapt to this new information
and redefine your perception of neutral.
Alternatively, it can also be valuable to organize more from the inside and seek inner
comfort and quiet, regardless of how asymmetrically the limbs are arranged. We can find
balance without being symmetrical, which is a valuable distinction for everyone to recognize
because none of our internal structures are symmetrical. Nevertheless, they all have the
ability to find balance and harmony. Because all human bodies are inherently asymmetrical,
a certain amount of surrender to this fact is necessary to achieve a deep state of emotional
and physical integration.
Breathing
A deep state of quiet consciousness is quite different from sleep, which is a common
experience in this pose. In savasana, the body is completely at rest and its metabolism is
freed of the demands of contending with gravity, making it possible to practice the most
difficult breathing exercise of all: the act of being fully aware of—but not controlling—the
breath’s movements.
Usually, when you are aware of your breathing, in some way you alter its natural rhythm.
When you are not aware of the breath, it is driven by a combination of autonomic impulses
and unconscious habit. The juxtaposition of active awareness and surrender to the breath’s
natural movements makes possible the powerful realization that true surrender is an act
of will.