Sitting in the Simple Cross-legged Pose (Sukhasana) is an easy alternative to the Lotus Pose (Padmasana). Although it’s also called Easy Pose, it can be quite challenging to sit comfortably in this pose for a longer period of time. This is because it’s hard to keep the spine straight. In this post, I’ll explain why this is so and what you can do about it.
Tag Archives: sitting position
Child’s Pose
The Child’s Pose (Balasana) is a simple and easy forward bending exercise. This makes it a suitable counterpose for backbend exercises like the Cobra Pose (Bhujangasana) and the Camel Pose (Ustrasana).
Sitting on a Chair
“The posture should be stable and pleasant” ~ Patanjali (Yoga Sutra 2.46)
Think of yoga and you probably picture someone sitting in the famous cross-legged Lotus Position. But not everybody is capable of sitting that way. Fortunately, being able to sit in Lotus Position isn’t really necessary for a successful yoga practice.
A proper sitting posture boils down to two essentials. First, the spine needs to be straight. This allows for a deep and complete breath. Second, the posture has to be comfortable, otherwise you’ll be distracted by sore buttocks, aching joints and weary muscles.
So it’s OK to sit on a chair, as long as you maintain a straight spine and sit comfortably.
Side bend from a seated straddle position
While sitting in a straddle position, you are making a side bend. A regular performance of side bends keeps the spine supple.