The nomenclature ‘Padmasana’ means ‘The Lotus Posture’. The term is derived from the Sanskrit words ‘Padma’ meaning ‘Lotus’ and ‘Asana’ which connotes ‘Posture’.
METHODOLOGY:
1. Sit on the floor with the legs stretched out straight in front.
2. Bend the right knee and grasp the right foot with both hands and place it on top of the left thigh bringing the heel as close to the navel as possible.
3. Bend the left knee and grasp the left foot with both hands and place it on top of the right thigh bringing the heel as close to the navel as possible.
4. Both knees should be on the ground and the soles of the feet are pointed upward. The spine is held straight.
5. Place the hands on the knees, form a circle with the thumb and forefinger and extend the remaining fingers straight ahead.
6. The position of the legs may be switched after a period of time if the posture becomes uncomfortable.
BENEFITS:
1. Calms the brain.
2. Stretches the ankles and knees
3. Stimulates the pelvis, spine, abdomen, and bladder
4. Traditional texts say that Padmasana destroys all disease and awakens kundalini.
CONTRAINDICATIONS AND CAUTIONS:
1. Ankle injury
2. Knee injury
