Basic SittingBeginner

Lotus Pose

Padmasana

Lotus Pose (Padmasana) folds each foot to the opposite hip crease, creating a symmetrical, steady seat for breathwork and meditation.

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How to Perform

  1. 1

    Sit tall with legs extended; bend right knee and cradle right foot, placing heel near navel in left hip crease.

  2. 2

    Bend left knee and place left foot atop right thigh near navel, soles facing upward.

  3. 3

    Settle sit bones evenly, lengthen spine, and rest hands on knees in mudra or stack palms at heart.

  4. 4

    Relax shoulders while keeping chin parallel to floor and gaze soft.

  5. 5

    Hold for several breaths, then switch crossing of legs to balance hips and knees.

Benefits

  • Opens hips, knees, and ankles while stabilizing pelvis.
  • Provides a balanced platform for pranayama and meditation.
  • Improves circulation in lumbar region and tones abdominal organs.

Alignment Cues

  • Feet rest in hip creases with soles turned upward.
  • Knees descend toward floor without force.
  • Pelvis stays neutral and spine vertical.
  • Shoulders stack over hips with collarbones broad.

Common Mistakes

No common mistakes listed.

Contraindications

  • Knee or ankle injury
  • Sciatic pain aggravated by deep external rotation

Recommended Props

Blankets under hipsBlocks under kneesStrap for half lotus

Tags

Basic SittingHipsIntermediateLegsMeditation PosesSpineasana