Padmasana Lotus Pose

Among all the poses prescribed for japa and Dhyana, padmasana comes foremost. It is the best Asana for contemplation. Rishis like Gheranda, Sandilya, speak very highly of this vital Asana. Moreover, this is probably the most well known pose routinely used by budha and other ancient yoga figures like lord shiva, lord Vishnu, etc. this asana is know as kamlasana, on account of the lotus shape of its posture.

Technique -

. Sit on the mat, dari or blanket spread on the flat surface or ground by spreading the legs forward.

. Now, keep the right foot on the left thigh

. Start bouncing the right knee. If the bouncing knee easily touches the floor, then bend the left knee, take hold of the left foot with both hands, gently glide it over the crossed right leg and place it on the right thigh.

. This will give symmetrical placement of the legs and you are in lotus position.

. Now straighten your backbone and neck so that there is no bend at your waist.

. Then, place the hands on the knee-joints. You can make a finger lock and keep the locked hands over the left ankle. This is very convenient for some persons. Or you can place the hand over the left knee and then place the right hand over the right knee with the palm facing upwards and the index finger touching the middle portion of the thumb.

Benefits -

. This is an extremely good pose for meditation and concentration and helps in the higher order of yoga sadhna including the awakening of kundalini.

. The lotus symbolizes man’s spiritual evolution. Commenting on the spiritual benefit of padmasana, hath yoga pradipika says “ The yogin seated in Padmasana posture, by steadying the breath … becomes liberated. There is nodout about this “

. Sitting with spine erect and legs folded into a steady base bring the body in to an effortless, resting state. It is why the practice of padmasana has a considerable calming effect on the mind and the nerves.

. It can help in observing celibacy for the young Brahamcharis and Brahamcharins

. This pose keeps the spine erect and provides it its strength and vitality.

. This pose keeps the spine erect and provides it its strength and vitality.

. It makes ankles, knees and hips more flexible, and benefits the nerves of the legs.