Posture of the month: Padmasana (Lotus Seat)
Recommended for both pranayama and meditation practice, Padmasana, is Sanskrit for lotus seat. (From Padma: lotus, and Asana: posture/seat).
In many Asian countries, the lotus is seen as a symbol of purity, transcendence and growth towards perfection. Rooted in the mud, it rises to the surface of the lake and unfolds in all its beauty, while any dirt effortlessly glides off its beautiful petals.
Lotus: the quintessential yoga pose
To put its importance into context: the Hatha Yoga Pradipika (written in the 15th century by Swami Svatmarama) is the oldest surviving manual of Hatha yoga. It features only six postures - Padmasana being the first of them.
To grasp the importance of the Lotus Seat, we need to remember that beyond the modern ‘physical exercise’ components, yoga in its essence is a practice to realise our higher Self and reconnect to our true, eternal nature. Keeping this in mind, it becomes evident why a steady seat for meditation is more than just another posture, but a key component of a deeper and more meaningful practice.
Benefits of practicing Padmasana
If you sit in Lotus regularly, you are likely to experience a number of health benefits. Like many other yoga postures, practicing Padmasana supports you on a mental, physical and spiritual level. If practiced correctly, circulation in your lower spine increases and your abdominal muscles and organs, along with hips, ankles and legs get strengthened. As a consequence, you might see:
Benefits for your posture, as you are keeping your spine perfectly straight
Reduced anxiety and better sleep
An overall increase in self-awareness
Better digestive health
Stronger joints
For women, less period pain, sciatica and easier childbirth
Having fun, taking the Lotus beyond its original purpose…