Restorative
Easy Pose
sukhasana
About the Pose
Despite its name, finding true ease in this classic cross-legged seated position can be a practice in itself. Sukhasana is the foundational seated posture for meditation and pranayama, designed to create a stable base and an upright spine for prolonged periods of stillness and inner focus.
How to Practice
- Sit on the floor or on the edge of a folded blanket or cushion.
- Cross your shins, bringing each foot underneath the opposite knee.
- Rest your hands on your knees, palms up or down.
- Press your sit bones firmly into the floor and lengthen your spine up through the crown of your head.
- Relax your shoulders down and away from your ears. Keep your chin parallel to the floor.
- Close your eyes and bring your awareness to your breath.
Purpose & Benefits
- Promotes Grounding: Creates a stable and grounded connection to the earth.
- Opens Hips: Gently opens the hips and lengthens the adductor muscles of the inner thighs.
- Aligns the Spine: Encourages an upright, elongated spine, which improves posture and allows for optimal breath.
- Calms the Mind: The stable posture provides a physical container for a calm and focused mind.