Meditation Positions

Wednesday 15 June, 2016.

You like the idea of meditating but don’t know what meditation positions to use?

There are actually many positions that you can adopt for meditation but the most important thing is to find a position that is comfortable… You must be able to still your body and your mind.

Two of the most commonly used postures are the half-lotus and shavasana…

Margo prefers to sit in the half lotus position and Alan meditates in shavasana. Try both and decide what feels more comfortable and relaxing for you…

1. Half Lotus

This is a simple cross-legged position, giving you balance and stability. A good position for any meditation!

1. Sit on the floor with your knees bent and the soles of your feet together. Gently press your knees towards the floor and then release them.
2. Holding onto your ankles, press forward, trying to get your face as close to your feet as possible – Don’t Strain!
   Return to the upright sitting position.
3. Now go into the half lotus itself.
   Sit on the floor with both legs out-stretched. Bend the left leg, bringing the left foot beneath the right thigh. Bend the right leg and bring your right foot on top of your left thigh. Both knees should be touching the floor and your back should be straight. You can rest the back of your hands on your knees with forefingers and thumbs on each hand lightly touching each other.

Remember to be kind to yourself… Only go as far as is comfortable.

2. Shavasana

1. Lie flat on the floor with your legs apart and relaxed, and your arms relaxed at the sides of your body.
2. Keep your body relaxed and still without becoming rigid with tension. If you start feeling tense, stop immediately and try again later. Start off by trying to stay still for three minutes, and then gradually extend the time as you improve with practice.

These two meditation positions can be used for any type of meditation practice. Once you are comfortable, begin your practice with a relaxing, focusing breathing exercise.

It is exciting when you realize that stress relief really can be a do-it-yourself project.