Lotus Pose

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Padmasana

Padmasana is a part of the meditation group of asanas. Padma in Sanskrit refers to the lotus flower and the position of Padmasana is said to resemble a lotus. This meditative practice encourages the breathing system to foster physical and mental stability.

Techniques:

• Sit with legs stretched out in front, with feet together
• Bend one leg from the knee
• Place it on top of the opposite thigh
• The sole of the foot should face upward, with the heel as much close to the pubic bone as possible
• Bend the other leg and place it on top of the opposite thigh
• Keep heels as close to the abdomen as possible
• Knees should touch the ground
• Place the palms on the knees in any mudra (hand gesture) of your choice
• Keep the elbows and shoulders relaxed, and maintain stillness

Contra-indications:

• Sciatica
• Knee problems
• Pregnancy
• A beginner should only attempt this pose with the guidance of a yoga consultant

Benefits:

• Provides stillness and steadiness in a sitting position
• Redirects prana from the muladhara to the sahasrara chakra
• Intensifies a meditation practice
• Slows down the rate of respiration and lowers blood pressure
• Decreases muscular tension
• Stimulates digestion by restricting blood flow to the legs and concentrating it in the abdominal region