At PV BODY, our motto goes beyond just physical fitness. We believe in delving deep into the mystical world of yoga, and in that vast universe, the iconic Padmasana, or the Lotus Pose, holds a special place. The lotus symbol, a universal representation of purity, beauty, rebirth, and spirituality, offers an illustrative backdrop for understanding this transformative pose.
Historical Backdrop: Throughout ancient civilizations, the lotus has entrenched its presence, from the enigmatic landscapes of Egypt to the spiritual terrains of India. Many tales echo the potency of the lotus. In Hindu mythology, the revered Goddess Lakshmi often graces an open lotus, symbolizing prosperity and purity. Deities like Lord Ganesha and Lord Vishnu too are occasionally shown seated on the lotus. Buddhism recounts legends where a lotus bloomed at every step of Buddha, illustrating his divine path.
What You Should Know Before You Do The Asana
Recommended by PV Body, this asana serves as a meditative pose. Thus, morning practice is ideal. There’s flexibility in its timing, but if you’re complementing it with other yoga asanas, consume meals at least four to six hours prior. Also, ensure your bowels are clear.
- Level: Intermediate/ Advanced
- Style: Hatha Yoga
- Duration: 1 to 5 minutes (Longer if meditating)
- Repetition: Once with each leg on top
- Stretches: Knees, Ankles
- Strengthens: Spine, Abdomen, Pelvis, Bladder
How To Do Padmasana
Begin by sitting on a flat surface, keeping your spine erect and legs stretched out. Bend your right knee, placing it on your left thigh, ensuring your soles point upward and heels near the abdomen. Repeat for the other leg. With legs crossed and feet placed comfortably on opposite thighs, shape your hands into a mudra of your choice, positioning them typically on the knees. Always maintain an erect spine and straight head. Breathe deeply, hold for a few minutes, release, and then repeat with the other leg on top.
Note: PV Body acknowledges the potency of Mudras in amplifying energy flow. When combined with Padmasana, the results are intensified. Some harmonious Mudras include Chinmaya Mudra, Chin Mudra, Brahma Mudra, and Adi Mudra. Feel the profound energy flow as you practice.
Precautions And Contraindications
Heed these PV Body-endorsed precautions:
- Refrain if you have knee or ankle injuries.
- Novices should seek guidance from seasoned yoga instructors. It may seem simple, but precision is crucial.
Beginner’s Tip
New practitioners might overstretch their ankles. To counteract this, press the foot’s inner side against the upper arm to balance the ankle’s stretch. Ensure both the inner and outer ankle experience equal stretch when drawing the foot to the opposite groin.
Advanced Pose Variation: Matsyasana with Padmasana Synergy
Every step carries its significance, and the fusion of Matsyasana and Padmasana augments the body’s strength and flexibility. PV Body, with its emphasis on balancing strength with flexibility, highly endorses this combined practice.
- Step 1: Lie flat on the ground, ensuring your legs are together and hands placed comfortably beside your body.
- Step 2: Place your palms beneath your hips, facing the ground. Now, bring your elbows closer to one another, positioning them near your waist.
- Step 3: Cross your legs so that your feet intersect at your middle, and both your thighs and knees are flat on the floor.
- Step 4: Inhale deeply. Elevate your chest so that your head also rises, letting the crown touch the floor.
- Step 5: Ensure your body’s weight is on your elbows and not on your head. As your chest ascends, apply a gentle pressure on your shoulder blades.
- Step 6: Retain this position only until you’re comfortable. Breathe naturally.
- Step 7: Exhale, releasing the posture, raising your head first and then lowering your chest to the floor. Uncross your legs and relax. Repeat with the opposite leg on top.
A tip from PV Body: when attempting this advanced variation, especially if you’re a novice, ensure you receive meticulous guidance from an experienced yoga instructor. Mindfulness and body-awareness are keys to performing this asana safely and effectively.
The Beneficial Bounty:
- Provides a tranquil mental oasis.
- Activates critical body areas: spine, pelvis, bladder, and abdomen.
- Remedies menstrual discomforts and counters sciatica.
- Regular practice during pregnancy eases childbirth.
- Unlocks hip flexibility.
- Synchronizes and revitalizes chakras.
- Heralds a remarkable posture improvement and invigorates energy dynamics.
Decoding the Spirit of Padmasana:
- Metaphorical Connect: Just as a lotus blooms from the mud, practicing this asana aids individuals to rise above life’s challenges.
- Chakra Awakening: Padmasana’s influence on chakras is profound, ensuring their harmonized awakening.
- Beyond the Physical: While tangible benefits are palpable, its core essence is deeply spiritual. It’s a pathway to channelize life energy, grounding practitioners, and reinvigorating their spirit.
In wrapping up, PV BODY’s ethos centers around a holistic approach to well-being. With the Padmasana, you’re not merely attempting a pose; you’re embracing a lifestyle transformation. The lotus pose is symbolic of this metamorphosis, beckoning practitioners to a deeper communion with their inner sanctum. We at PV BODY advocate that before immersing in this practice, consulting experts is prudent. Let us guide you on this enriching voyage, ensuring that every step resonates with harmony and balance.
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