Sukhasana has been depicted in ancient sculptures and manuscripts as one of the preferred postures for offering prayers, and meditation. The posture is suitable for both beginners and regular practitioners of all ages.
Etymology of Sukhasana
The Term Sukhasana is made up of two Sanskrit words: “Sukh” meaning pleasure or comfort and “Asana” meaning posture. This name has been given to this posture as it does not involve extreme twisting and turning of body parts, except for a minor change in the position of the legs.
Steps for performing Sukhasana
1. Sit down with your legs stretched ahead. Keep your backbone straight.
2. Make a cross with your lower legs and tuck your feet under the thighs opposite to each other
3. Hold your left foot with both hands and place it on your right thigh. The feet can be interchanged if a practitioner wants to do so. maintain a little space between the pelvis and the feet. if the posture is accurate the crossed legs and thighs will make a small triangle.
4. place your palms on the floor so that the hip bones get lifted, hold this position for one or two seconds and then release it. by doing so, the hip bones will be placed an equal distance between the legs.
5. Place your palms on the knees. touch your index finger with your thumb (the position is known as Gyan mudra).
Precaution for beginners/practitioners
1. In the beginning, some practitioners might find it difficult to rest their ankles on the thighs, due to the stiffness of the knees or hip joints. in this situation, they are advised not to twist their legs by force. Instead, they must start practicing with exercises that help in improving the flexibility of joints (Insert hyperlink) or start practicing a much easier version of the posture. Once the flexibility of the hips and knee joints improves, start practicing this posture for a few seconds.
2. it is best to perform this posture in early morning and evening yoga practice sessions, or at least after 4-6 hours of having the last meal. Do not practice this posture immediately after the meals.
Benefits of practicing Sukhasana
1. helps in correcting body posture.
2. Stretches knees, ankles, and spines.
3. massages thighs, knees, and calf.
4. Relieves stress and anxiety.
5. Calms the mind.
6. Opens collarbone, chest, and hips.