Yoga classes often end with “Shavasana”, which is a period of full relaxation, lying on your back.

When I first tried yoga, I disliked this. I didn’t understand it and thought it was a waste of time.

Now, it’s my favorite part. I actively look forward to the Shavasana period, after the sometimes-intense yoga practice.

I apply this is in my normal life too, now. After ending a hard work day or even just a hard work session, I take a moment to Shavasana (if not physically, then mentally). It doesn’t have to take a lot of time.

There’s a certain wisdom in the recognition that after a strenuous period, it’s good to explicitly block some time to decompress, unwind, and relax.