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Padmasana, also known as the lotus position, is a seated yoga posture where the feet are placed on opposite thighs. It helps prepare the body for meditation by allowing the practitioner to remain still and relaxed. However, it may not be suitable for those with joint problems or limited range of motion. The lotus position also has a long tradition in Hindu and Indian Buddhist art, often indicating a connection to meditation.
In yoga, padmasana is a seated position in which the feet are placed on opposite thighs, resulting in a cross-legged pose. The name “padmasana” comes from the Sanskrit words “padma”, which means lotus, and “sana”, which means seat or throne. It is commonly called the “lotus position” in English. The shape of the lotus position is said to resemble the shape of an opening lotus flower.
In padmasana, the yoga practitioner places first one foot, then the other, on the opposite thigh. The heel should be as close to the abdomen as possible with the sole facing up. Both knees are in contact with the floor and the pelvis is tilted slightly forward. A cushion or mat can be used to provide support. In this case, the practitioner sits in a position near the front edge of the mat.
Like other “asanas” or yoga postures, padmasana originates from the physical discipline of hatha yoga. Hatha yoga, often shortened to “yoga,” is intended to prepare and purify the body for meditation. Padmasana serves this purpose by helping the body remain still. If your knees are firmly on the floor, your upper body will be supported so you can rest in a relaxed posture without moving at all. By keeping the body still and relaxed, this position allows the practitioner to clear the mind, ignoring the demands of the body.
Although many people can spend long periods sitting in the lotus position with practice, the flexibility required may be too great for some. Those who suffer from joint problems, sacral infections, or sciatica should avoid attempting padmasana, as should anyone whose range of motion prevents them from placing both knees on the floor. People whose health prevents them from attempting padmasana can use other asanas for meditation.
In addition to the practice of yoga, the lotus position has a long tradition in both Hindu and Indian Buddhist art. Various spiritual figures, including the Hindu god Shiva and the Buddha, are depicted seated in this position. Depicting a figure in this way usually indicates a strong connection to meditation.
In addition to referring to a yoga position, the term padmasana can literally mean a throne. Art inspired by Hinduism or Buddhism sometimes depicts gods or other beings seated on thrones decorated with lotus motifs, or even on thrones made of lotus flowers or pads. In Balinese Hinduism, the god Acintya is often represented by an empty throne decorated with lotus motifs. The vacant throne symbolizes the unknowing of the divine.
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