Restorative Asana · Beginner (Level 1) · Catalog #800118

Constructive Rest Savasana (knees bent)

Lying with knees bent and feet planted so the low back can release. The alternative to savasana for anyone whose back complains lying flat.

Practice Constructive Rest (Savasana (knees bent)) with Illustrated Cues & Breath Timer Open this posture in Ayurveda & Asana Yoga on iPhone & iPad to build custom dosha sequences and track MET energy burn.
Download on the App Store
Constructive Rest (Savasana (knees bent)) — Restorative Yoga Posture Illustration

Constructive Rest (Savasana (knees bent)) — Restorative posture targeting Lower Back, Hip Flexors · Natural breath · Eyes closed drishti.

Vāta: Pacifies (-1) Pitta: Pacifies (-1) Kapha: Neutral (0)
Sanskrit Name
Savasana (knees bent)
Posture Family
Restorative
Difficulty
Beginner (Level 1)
Recommended Hold
420 seconds
Breath Pattern
Natural
Drishti (Gaze)
Eyes closed
Target Muscles
Lower Back, Hip Flexors
Energy Expenditure
1.1 METs

Alignment, Breath & Drishti Cues for Constructive Rest

Constructive Rest (Savasana (knees bent)) belongs to the Restorative posture family and engages the Lower Back, Hip Flexors at an intensity of approximately 1.1 METs. Lying with knees bent and feet planted so the low back can release. The alternative to savasana for anyone whose back complains lying flat.

  • Breath Rhythm: Maintain Natural throughout the 420-second hold so nervous system tone remains steady.
  • Visual Focal Point (Drishti): Direct the gaze toward Eyes closed to quiet peripheral distraction and stabilize balance.
  • Primary Anatomical Focus: Concentrates mechanical load and mobility across Lower Back, Hip Flexors.
  • Minimum Recommended Age: 3 years (12 months).

Ayurvedic Dosha Profile (Vāta, Pitta & Kapha)

In Ayurvedic asana sequencing (Dosha Provenance: modern-synthesis), every posture shifts Vata, Pitta, and Kapha according to its mechanical compression, heat generation, and grounding stability:

  • Vāta Effect: Pacifies (-1) — pair with slow nasal breathing and unhurried transitions to prevent excess mobility or dryness.
  • Pitta Effect: Pacifies (-1) — keep the jaw, temples, and abdomen soft when holding for 420 seconds.
  • Kapha Effect: Neutral (0) — link into dynamic flows or longer holds when seeking metabolic stimulation.

Contraindications & Safety Precautions

No specific classical contraindications recorded for healthy adults; always practice within pain-free range of motion.

iOS App for iPhone & iPad

Practice with 908 illustrated postures, custom prāṇāyāma timers & dosha meal plans

Combine classical Vata, Pitta, and Kapha balance, Six Tastes (Shad Rasa), and seasonal Ritucharya routines with verified USDA calorie, macronutrient, vitamin, and mineral tracking.

Related Restorative Yoga Poses

Side-Lying Savasana (Parsva Savasana)Restorative · Level 1

Side-Lying Savasana (Parsva Savasana)

Final rest taken on the side with support between the knees. The recommended form in pregnancy and for anyone uncomfortable on the back.

Melting Heart (Anahatasana)Restorative · Level 2

Melting Heart (Anahatasana)

Hips high, chest and chin melting toward the floor. A yin shape held for minutes rather than breaths.