Seated Positions, easy access to āsanas; foundation for meditation.
Following the original definition of āsana (the comfortable and firm sitting posture), this week we focus on the sitting asanas. Whether performed on the floor or on a chair, they offer many opportunities to stabilize and stretch the body, even off the yoga mat, and form a good basis for moving the spine in all directions and thus remaining fluid.
Depending on the position of the legs, their effect on the hip position and the direction of posture of the upper body, they have different positive effects and benefits on the joints, muscles, organs and nervous system.
What they have in common is the grounding and also meditative effect.
In seated āsanas we connect with the earth and the willingness to settle for a moment and are given the opportunity to contemplate.
Seated āsanas often form the beginning and end of a yoga lesson.
In sitting postures it is easier for us to create a connection between conscious breathing and physicality, this integration of mind and body, this union that is found in all aspects of yoga and defines the goal of yoga. Through correct and regular practice of āsanas, we attain a state of perfect balance of body, mind and spirit. A feeling of lightness and serenity arises. Because the mind follows the breath, the mind becomes part of the whole process and reaches a level of peace.
If you succeed in leading the mind there again and again, you attain Samādhāna समाधान , equanimity embedded in joy, the independence of your contentment from external circumstances.
“It is not possible to control all external events; But, if I simply control my mind what need is there to control other things?”
Shantideva