Padmasana - Revision history

Xenja: /* Other sitting postures */

2026-04-12T20:20:16Z

Xenja: /* Other sitting postures */

2026-04-12T20:17:57Z

Xenja: /* Other sitting postures */

2026-04-12T20:16:33Z

Xenja at 22:36, 25 March 2026

2026-03-25T22:36:27Z

← Older revision		Revision as of 00:36, 26 March 2026
Line 1:		Line 1:
	'''Padmasana''' (Sanskrit पद्मासन, IAST padmāsana), known in English as the '''lotus position''' or '''lotus pose''', is a sitting posture. It is also called '''Kamalasana'''. The Sanskrit name ''padmāsana'' is formed from the words ''padma'' "lotus flower"<ref>[https://learnsanskrit.cc/translate?search=padma&dir=se ''Results for "padma"''] In: ''learnsanskrit.cc.'' Retrieved December 13 2025 </ref> and ''āsana'' "seat" or, more generally, "posture". <ref>[https://www.learnsanskrit.cc/translate?search=Asana&dir=au ''Results for ~~„Asana“~~.''] In: ''learnsanskrit.cc.'' Retrieved December 13 2025.</ref> "Kamala" also refers to the lotus flower. <ref>[https://learnsanskrit.cc/translate?search=kamala&dir=au ''Results for "kamala".''] In: ''learnsanskrit.cc.'' Retrieved December 13 2025.</ref> Padmasana is used as a sitting position for [[meditation]]. As a classic sitting position, Padmasana is part of the 84 main exercises of [[w:Hatha Yoga\|Hatha Yoga]]. It is practiced in almost all styles of yoga.		'''Padmasana''' (Sanskrit पद्मासन, IAST padmāsana), known in English as the '''lotus position''' or '''lotus pose''', is a sitting posture. It is also called '''Kamalasana'''. The Sanskrit name ''padmāsana'' is formed from the words ''padma'' "lotus flower"<ref>[https://learnsanskrit.cc/translate?search=padma&dir=se ''Results for "padma"''] In: ''learnsanskrit.cc.'' Retrieved December 13 2025 </ref> and ''āsana'' "seat" or, more generally, "posture".<ref>[https://www.learnsanskrit.cc/translate?search=Asana&dir=au ''Results for "Asana".''] In: ''learnsanskrit.cc.'' Retrieved December 13 2025.</ref> "Kamala" also refers to the lotus flower.<ref>[https://learnsanskrit.cc/translate?search=kamala&dir=au ''Results for "kamala".''] In: ''learnsanskrit.cc.'' Retrieved December 13 2025.</ref> Padmasana is used as a sitting position for [[meditation]]. As a classic sitting position, Padmasana is part of the 84 main exercises of [[w:Hatha Yoga\|Hatha Yoga]]. It is practiced in almost all styles of yoga.

	=Symbology of the Lotus Flower=		=Symbology of the Lotus Flower=
Line 5:		Line 5:
	[[File:Nelumno nucifera open flower - botanic garden adelaide2.jpg\|thumb\|210px\|Lotus flower - Nelumbo nucifera - which holds deep spiritual significance e.g. in Buddhism and Hinduism]]		[[File:Nelumno nucifera open flower - botanic garden adelaide2.jpg\|thumb\|210px\|Lotus flower - Nelumbo nucifera - which holds deep spiritual significance e.g. in Buddhism and Hinduism]]

	In Hinduism, the lotus flower symbolizes creation and regeneration, which are attributed to a female divine principle. Various deities are depicted as being born from the calyx of the lotus flower. ~~<ref name=":0">[https://hydrophyllum.it/blog/simbologia-del-fior-di-loto-n24 ''Simbologia del Fior di Loto.''] In: ''hydrophyllum.it.'' Retrieved January 16 2026 (italian).</ref>~~		In Hinduism, the lotus flower symbolizes creation and regeneration, which are attributed to a female divine principle. Various deities are depicted as being born from the calyx of the lotus flower.

	In Buddhism, the lotus symbolizes spiritual elevation, the capacity or ability of humans to rise above the problems of the world through spiritual development. Just as the flower rises from the pond and produces a radiant, dirt-repellent bloom, so too can humans, through a path of meditation, wisdom, and inner growth, attain the ability to overcome evil and not be overwhelmed by difficulties. Being like the lotus does not mean not noticing the problems of life, but it means knowing how to confront and overcome problems without being overwhelmed or conditioned by them. The lotus is the flower of meditation and rediscovery of life, light, and inner awareness. Some Buddha statues show Buddha in Padmasana.~~<ref name=":0" />~~		In Buddhism, the lotus symbolizes spiritual elevation, the capacity or ability of humans to rise above the problems of the world through spiritual development. Just as the flower rises from the pond and produces a radiant, dirt-repellent bloom, so too can humans, through a path of meditation, wisdom, and inner growth, attain the ability to overcome evil and not be overwhelmed by difficulties. Being like the lotus does not mean not noticing the problems of life, but it means knowing how to confront and overcome problems without being overwhelmed or conditioned by them. The lotus is the flower of meditation and rediscovery of life, light, and inner awareness. Some Buddha statues show Buddha in Padmasana.

	In ancient Egypt, the lotus flower symbolized the sun, rebirth, and the region of Upper Egypt. These meanings appear in three different legends about creation. According to one legend, the sun rose from a lotus flower that emerged from the primordial chaos and was formed from water.<ref name=":0" />		In ancient Egypt, the lotus flower symbolized the sun, rebirth, and the region of Upper Egypt. These meanings appear in three different legends about creation. According to one legend, the sun rose from a lotus flower that emerged from the primordial chaos and was formed from water.<ref name=":0">[https://hydrophyllum.it/blog/simbologia-del-fior-di-loto-n24 ''Simbologia del Fior di Loto.''] In: ''hydrophyllum.it.'' Retrieved January 16 2026 (italian).</ref>

	=Padmasana in the ancient scriptures of yoga=		=Padmasana in the ancient scriptures of yoga=
Line 19:		Line 19:
	In the [[w:Hathapradipika\|Hathapradipika]] (written in the 14th century), Padmasana is described in verse 44:		In the [[w:Hathapradipika\|Hathapradipika]] (written in the 14th century), Padmasana is described in verse 44:

	:"Now the lotus pose (padmāsana).Place the right foot on the left thigh, and the left on the right thigh, firmly hold the big toes with the hands crossed behind the back, put the chin on the chest and gaze at the tip of the nose. This, which destroys diseases for those who undertake the observances, is called the lotus pose."<ref>[ https://hathapradipika.online/ retrieved January 15 2025]</ref>		:"Now the lotus pose (padmāsana).Place the right foot on the left thigh, and the left on the right thigh, firmly hold the big toes with the hands crossed behind the back, put the chin on the chest and gaze at the tip of the nose. This, which destroys diseases for those who undertake the observances, is called the lotus pose."<ref>[https://hathapradipika.online/ ''Hathapradipika''] retrieved January 15 2025]</ref>

	In Verse 45 another variant of the position without crossing the arms is described:		In Verse 45 another variant of the position without crossing the arms is described:
	:"However, in another school [padmāsana is taught as follows]:Carefully put the upturned feet on the thighs and the upturned hands in the middle of the thighs,…"<ref>[ https://hathapradipika.online/ retrieved January 15 2025]</ref>		:"However, in another school [padmāsana is taught as follows]:Carefully put the upturned feet on the thighs and the upturned hands in the middle of the thighs,…"<ref>[https://hathapradipika.online/ ''Hathapradipika.''] retrieved January 15 2025]</ref>

	The [[w:Gherandasamhita\|Gherandasamhita]] (probably written in the 17th century) refers to Padmasana in verse 8 as "destroyer of all diseases" (''This posture destroys all diseases''). The physical execution is described as in the Hathapradipika.<ref>[https://www.aghori.it/Gherandasamhita.pdf "Gherandasamhita"] p. 13 .</ref>		The [[w:Gherandasamhita\|Gherandasamhita]] (probably written in the 17th century) refers to Padmasana in verse 8 as "destroyer of all diseases" (''This posture destroys all diseases''). The physical execution is described as in the Hathapradipika.<ref>[https://www.aghori.it/Gherandasamhita.pdf ''Gherandasamhita''] p. 13 .</ref>

	Verses 88–91 in Chapter 3 of the [[w:Shivasamhita\|Shivasamhita]] (written around 1700) are dedicated to Padmasana. Verse 88 mentions the protective and healing effects of the sitting position: "I now describe the Padmasana which wards off (or cures) all diseases....~~<ref name=":1~~"~~>[https://archive.org/stream/SivaSamhita/SivaSamhita_djvu.txt „Shiva Samhita“ ] retrieved January 15 2026 </ref>~~ Verse 91 concludes the discussion of Padmasana with the words: "Sitting in the Padmasana posture, and knowing the action of the prana and apana, when the Yogi performs the regulation of the breath, he is emancipated. I tell you the truth. Verily, I tell you the truth."<ref name=":1" />		Verses 88–91 in Chapter 3 of the [[w:Shivasamhita\|Shivasamhita]] (written around 1700) are dedicated to Padmasana. Verse 88 mentions the protective and healing effects of the sitting position: "I now describe the Padmasana which wards off (or cures) all diseases...." Verse 91 concludes the discussion of Padmasana with the words: "Sitting in the Padmasana posture, and knowing the action of the prana and apana, when the Yogi performs the regulation of the breath, he is emancipated. I tell you the truth. Verily, I tell you the truth."<ref name=":1">[https://archive.org/stream/SivaSamhita/SivaSamhita_djvu.txt ''Shiva Samhita'' ] retrieved January 15 2026 </ref>

	=Physical execution=		=Physical execution=
Line 33:		Line 33:


	Since the physical execution is described similarly by various yoga masters, the instructions of B. K. S. Iyengar ~~[wikilink?~~] are presented below as an example:
			Since the physical execution is described similarly by various yoga masters, the instructions of [[W:B. K. S. Iyengar\|B. K. S. Iyengar]] are presented below as an example:

	Iyengar begins the asana in a seated position with legs extended. Then the right leg is bent, the right foot is grasped with the hands and placed at the root of the left thigh so that the heel is close to the navel. Now the left leg is bent, the left foot is grasped with the hands and placed over the right leg. The heel should also be close to the navel. The soles of the feet are turned upward.		Iyengar begins the asana in a seated position with legs extended. Then the right leg is bent, the right foot is grasped with the hands and placed at the root of the left thigh so that the heel is close to the navel. Now the left leg is bent, the left foot is grasped with the hands and placed over the right leg. The heel should also be close to the navel. The soles of the feet are turned upward.

	:"People not used to sitting on the floor seldom have flexible knees. At the start they will feel excruciating pain around the knees. By perseverance and continued practice the pain will gradually subside and they can then stay in the pose comfortably for a long time." ~~<ref name=":2" >[https://ia800108.us.archive.org/29/items/in.ernet.dli.2015.149689/2015.149689.Light-On-Yoga_text.pdf "Light on Yoga"]</ref>~~		:"People not used to sitting on the floor seldom have flexible knees. At the start they will feel excruciating pain around the knees. By perseverance and continued practice the pain will gradually subside and they can then stay in the pose comfortably for a long time."

	The spine should remain straight. The arms can be stretched out and the right hand placed on the right knee and the left hand on the left knee. Alternatively, the hands can be positioned in the middle, where the feet cross. Iyengar furthermore recommends changing the position of the legs so that they develop evenly. <ref name=":2"/>		The spine should remain straight. The arms can be stretched out and the right hand placed on the right knee and the left hand on the left knee. Alternatively, the hands can be positioned in the middle, where the feet cross. Iyengar furthermore recommends changing the position of the legs so that they develop evenly.<ref name=":2">B.K.S. Iyengar: ''Light On Yoga'', HarperCollins Publishers</ref>

	In '''Ardha Padmasana''', the "half lotus pose", only one foot is placed on the thigh of the other leg, which remains bent and in full contact with the floor. Ardha Padmasana is suitable as preparation for the full lotus pose.		In '''Ardha Padmasana''', the "half lotus pose", only one foot is placed on the thigh of the other leg, which remains bent and in full contact with the floor. Ardha Padmasana is suitable as preparation for the full lotus pose.
Line 45:		Line 46:
	The Sivananda Yoga Vedanta Center recommends two warm-up exercises for Padmasana:		The Sivananda Yoga Vedanta Center recommends two warm-up exercises for Padmasana:
	"Sit with spine erect and soles of the feet together, heels close to the body. For the ''ankle-knee pose''… press your knees forward with a straight back. For the ''butterfly'' … clasp your feet and and move your knees up and down."<ref>The Sivananda Yoga Center: ''The Sivananda companion to yoga'' First Fireside Edition, New York, 2000, ISBN 0-684-87000-2,		"Sit with spine erect and soles of the feet together, heels close to the body. For the ''ankle-knee pose''… press your knees forward with a straight back. For the ''butterfly'' … clasp your feet and and move your knees up and down."<ref>The Sivananda Yoga Center: ''The Sivananda companion to yoga'' First Fireside Edition, New York, 2000, ISBN 0-684-87000-2,
	p. 134 </ref>		p. 134. </ref>


	= The picture and the meaning =		= The picture and the meaning =

Line 54:		Line 53:
	einem spirituellen Übungsweg, Copyright 2018. p.129		einem spirituellen Übungsweg, Copyright 2018. p.129
	</ref>		</ref>


	=Other sitting postures =		=Other sitting postures =

	According to Heinz Grill, it is also possible to assume the meditation posture on a chair. However, it is important "to bring a certain degree of gathering to the base of the body, really straightening up the back well, out of the sacrum, out of the centre and with the entire chest region, so that the head seems as if it is supported."<ref>[https://heinz-grill.de/en/the-ideal-posture-for-meditation/ "Heinz Grill: The ideal posture for Meditation"] retrieved December 1st 2025 </ref>		According to Heinz Grill, it is also possible to assume the meditation posture on a chair. However, it is important "to bring a certain degree of gathering to the base of the body, really straightening up the back well, out of the sacrum, out of the centre and with the entire chest region, so that the head seems as if it is supported."<ref>[https://heinz-grill.de/en/the-ideal-posture-for-meditation/ Heinz Grill: ''The ideal posture for Meditation''] retrieved December 1st 2025 </ref>


	=References=		=References=
	<references/>		<references/>

	[[Category:Asana]]		[[index.php?title=Category:Asana]]

Xenja at 22:55, 8 March 2026

2026-03-08T22:55:52Z

Xenja at 22:46, 8 March 2026

2026-03-08T22:46:38Z

← Older revision		Revision as of 00:46, 9 March 2026
Line 22:		Line 22:

	In Verse 45 another variant of the position without crossing the arms is described:		In Verse 45 another variant of the position without crossing the arms is described:
	:~~„However~~, in another school [padmāsana is taught as follows]:Carefully put the upturned feet on the thighs and the upturned hands in the middle of the thighs,…“<ref>[ https://hathapradipika.online/ retrieved January 15 2025]</ref>		:"However, in another school [padmāsana is taught as follows]:Carefully put the upturned feet on the thighs and the upturned hands in the middle of the thighs,…"<ref>[ https://hathapradipika.online/ retrieved January 15 2025]</ref>

	The [[w:Gherandasamhita\|Gherandasamhita]] (probably written in the 17th century) refers to Padmasana in verse 8 as “destroyer of all diseases” (‘'This posture destroys all diseases’'). The physical execution is described as in the Hathapradipika.<ref>[https://www.aghori.it/Gherandasamhita.pdf "Gherandasamhita"] p. 13 .</ref>		The [[w:Gherandasamhita\|Gherandasamhita]] (probably written in the 17th century) refers to Padmasana in verse 8 as “destroyer of all diseases” (‘'This posture destroys all diseases’'). The physical execution is described as in the Hathapradipika.<ref>[https://www.aghori.it/Gherandasamhita.pdf "Gherandasamhita"] p. 13 .</ref>
Line 38:		Line 38:
	Iyengar begins the asana in a seated position with legs extended. Then the right leg is bent, the right foot is grasped with the hands and placed at the root of the left thigh so that the heel is close to the navel. Now the left leg is bent, the left foot is grasped with the hands and placed over the right leg. The heel should also be close to the navel. The soles of the feet are turned upward.		Iyengar begins the asana in a seated position with legs extended. Then the right leg is bent, the right foot is grasped with the hands and placed at the root of the left thigh so that the heel is close to the navel. Now the left leg is bent, the left foot is grasped with the hands and placed over the right leg. The heel should also be close to the navel. The soles of the feet are turned upward.

	:~~„People~~ not used to sitting on the floor seldom have flexible knees"		:"People not used to sitting on the floor seldom have flexible knees. At the start they will feel excruciating pain around the knees. By perseverance and continued practice the pain will gradually subside and they can then stay in the pose comfortably for a long time." <ref name=":2" >[https://ia800108.us.archive.org/29/items/in.ernet.dli.2015.149689/2015.149689.Light-On-Yoga_text.pdf „Light on Yoga“]</ref>
	At the start they will feel excruciating pain around the knees by
	perseverance and continued practice the pain will gradually subside
	and they can then stay in the pose comfortably for a long ~~time“~~ <ref name=":2" >[https://ia800108.us.archive.org/29/items/in.ernet.dli.2015.149689/2015.149689.Light-On-Yoga_text.pdf „Light on Yoga“]</ref>

	The spine should remain straight. The arms can be stretched out and the right hand placed on the right knee and the left hand on the left knee. Alternatively, the hands can be positioned in the middle, where the feet cross. Iyengar furthermore recommends changing the position of the legs so that they develop evenly. <ref name=":2"/>		The spine should remain straight. The arms can be stretched out and the right hand placed on the right knee and the left hand on the left knee. Alternatively, the hands can be positioned in the middle, where the feet cross. Iyengar furthermore recommends changing the position of the legs so that they develop evenly. <ref name=":2"/>

	In ‘’'Ardha Padmasana'‘’, the ~~“half~~ lotus pose,” only one foot is placed on the thigh of the other leg, which remains bent and in full contact with the floor. Ardha Padmasana is suitable as preparation for the full lotus pose.		In '''Ardha Padmasana''', the "half lotus pose", only one foot is placed on the thigh of the other leg, which remains bent and in full contact with the floor. Ardha Padmasana is suitable as preparation for the full lotus pose.

	The Sivananda Yoga Vedanta Center recommends two warm-up exercises for Padmasana:		The Sivananda Yoga Vedanta Center recommends two warm-up exercises for Padmasana:
Line 55:		Line 52:

	The picture and the meaning of the posture are described by Heinz Grill with the following words:		The picture and the meaning of the posture are described by Heinz Grill with the following words:
	:~~„The~~ calmness and composure, which is particular to this position, gives a perception of being free from earthly conflicts, passions and turbulence. The thought processes, which take their first expression in the etheric sphere, as well as the perceptions, which tend more into the astral sphere, can be perceived freer from the body in this position. It is in this calmness, alertness and uprightness, with concurrent release from the body, that the meaning of this exercise lies."<ref>Heinz Grill: ~~„The~~ Soul Dimension of Yoga.“ Translated from the original German title by Heinz Grill: Die Seelendimension des Yoga - Praktische Grundlagen zu		:"The calmness and composure, which is particular to this position, gives a perception of being free from earthly conflicts, passions and turbulence. The thought processes, which take their first expression in the etheric sphere, as well as the perceptions, which tend more into the astral sphere, can be perceived freer from the body in this position. It is in this calmness, alertness and uprightness, with concurrent release from the body, that the meaning of this exercise lies."<ref>Heinz Grill: "The Soul Dimension of Yoga." Translated from the original German title by Heinz Grill: Die Seelendimension des Yoga - Praktische Grundlagen zu
	einem spirituellen Übungsweg, Copyright 2018. p.129		einem spirituellen Übungsweg, Copyright 2018. p.129
	</ref>		</ref>
Line 62:		Line 59:
	=Other sitting postures =		=Other sitting postures =

	According to Heinz Grill, it is also possible to assume the meditation posture on a chair. However, it is important ~~„to~~ bring a certain degree of gathering to the base of the body, really straightening up the back well, out of the sacrum, out of the centre and with the entire chest region, so that the head seems as if it is supported."<ref>[https://heinz-grill.de/en/the-ideal-posture-for-meditation/ ~~„Heinz~~ Grill: The ideal posture for ~~Meditation“~~] retrieved December 1st 2025 </ref>		According to Heinz Grill, it is also possible to assume the meditation posture on a chair. However, it is important "to bring a certain degree of gathering to the base of the body, really straightening up the back well, out of the sacrum, out of the centre and with the entire chest region, so that the head seems as if it is supported."<ref>[https://heinz-grill.de/en/the-ideal-posture-for-meditation/ "Heinz Grill: The ideal posture for Meditation"] retrieved December 1st 2025 </ref>

Xenja at 00:10, 12 February 2026

2026-02-12T00:10:33Z

← Older revision		Revision as of 02:10, 12 February 2026
Line 1:		Line 1:


	~~[[File:Jogapradipika 2 Padmasana.jpg\|thumb\|140px\| Illustration of Padmasana yoga pose from manuscript of Hatha Yoga Pradipika, 1830.]]~~

	Padmasana (Sanskrit पद्मासन, IAST padmāsana), known in English as the lotus position or lotus pose, is a sitting posture. It is also called Kamalasana. The Sanskrit name padmāsana is formed from the words padma “lotus flower”<ref>[https://learnsanskrit.cc/translate?search=padma&dir=se ''Results for„padma“''] In: ''learnsanskrit.cc.'' Retrieved December 13 2025 </ref> and āsana ‘seat’ or, more generally, “posture.” <ref>[https://www.learnsanskrit.cc/translate?search=Asana&dir=au ''Results for „Asana“.''] In: ''learnsanskrit.cc.'' Retrieved December 13 2025.</ref> „Kamala“ also refers to the lotus flower. <ref>[https://learnsanskrit.cc/translate?search=kamala&dir=au ''Results for „kamala“.''] In: ''learnsanskrit.cc.'' Retrieved December 13 2025.</ref> Padmasana is used as a sitting position for [[meditation]]. As a classic sitting position, Padmasana is part of the 84 main exercises of Hatha Yoga. It is practiced in almost all styles of yoga.		Padmasana (Sanskrit पद्मासन, IAST padmāsana), known in English as the lotus position or lotus pose, is a sitting posture. It is also called Kamalasana. The Sanskrit name padmāsana is formed from the words padma “lotus flower”<ref>[https://learnsanskrit.cc/translate?search=padma&dir=se ''Results for„padma“''] In: ''learnsanskrit.cc.'' Retrieved December 13 2025 </ref> and āsana ‘seat’ or, more generally, “posture.” <ref>[https://www.learnsanskrit.cc/translate?search=Asana&dir=au ''Results for „Asana“.''] In: ''learnsanskrit.cc.'' Retrieved December 13 2025.</ref> „Kamala“ also refers to the lotus flower. <ref>[https://learnsanskrit.cc/translate?search=kamala&dir=au ''Results for „kamala“.''] In: ''learnsanskrit.cc.'' Retrieved December 13 2025.</ref> Padmasana is used as a sitting position for [[meditation]]. As a classic sitting position, Padmasana is part of the 84 main exercises of Hatha Yoga. It is practiced in almost all styles of yoga.

	=Symbology of the Lotus Flower=		=Symbology of the Lotus Flower=

	[[File:Nelumno nucifera open flower - botanic garden adelaide2.jpg\|thumb\|Lotus flower - Nelumbo nucifera - which holds deep spiritual significance e.g. in Buddhism and Hinduism]]		[[File:Nelumno nucifera open flower - botanic garden adelaide2.jpg\|thumb\|210px\|Lotus flower - Nelumbo nucifera - which holds deep spiritual significance e.g. in Buddhism and Hinduism]]

	In Hinduism, the lotus flower symbolizes creation and regeneration, which are attributed to a female divine principle. Various deities are depicted as being born from the calyx of the lotus flower. <ref name=":0">[https://hydrophyllum.it/blog/simbologia-del-fior-di-loto-n24 ''Simbologia del Fior di Loto.''] In: ''hydrophyllum.it.'' Retrieved January 16 2026 (italian).</ref>		In Hinduism, the lotus flower symbolizes creation and regeneration, which are attributed to a female divine principle. Various deities are depicted as being born from the calyx of the lotus flower. <ref name=":0">[https://hydrophyllum.it/blog/simbologia-del-fior-di-loto-n24 ''Simbologia del Fior di Loto.''] In: ''hydrophyllum.it.'' Retrieved January 16 2026 (italian).</ref>
Line 34:		Line 30:

	=Physical execution=		=Physical execution=

			[[file:PadmasanaHG.JPG\|240px\|thumb\|Heinz Grill in Padmasana with the hands placed on the knees]]


	Since the physical execution is described similarly by various yoga masters, the instructions of B. K. S. Iyengar [wikilink?] are presented below as an example:		Since the physical execution is described similarly by various yoga masters, the instructions of B. K. S. Iyengar [wikilink?] are presented below as an example:
Line 51:		Line 50:
	"Sit with spine erect and soles of the feet together, heels close to the body. For the ''ankle-knee pose''… press your knees forward with a straight back. For the ''butterfly'' … clasp your feet and and move your knees up and down."<ref>The Sivananda Yoga Center: ''The Sivananda companion to yoga'' First Fireside Edition, New York, 2000, ISBN 0-684-87000-2,		"Sit with spine erect and soles of the feet together, heels close to the body. For the ''ankle-knee pose''… press your knees forward with a straight back. For the ''butterfly'' … clasp your feet and and move your knees up and down."<ref>The Sivananda Yoga Center: ''The Sivananda companion to yoga'' First Fireside Edition, New York, 2000, ISBN 0-684-87000-2,
	p. 134 </ref>		p. 134 </ref>

	~~[[file:PadmasanaHG.JPG\|280px\|thumb\|Heinz Grill in Padmasana with the hands placed on the knees]]~~

Xenja at 23:22, 11 February 2026

2026-02-11T23:22:31Z

← Older revision		Revision as of 01:22, 12 February 2026
Line 1:		Line 1:


			[[File:Jogapradipika 2 Padmasana.jpg\|thumb\|140px\| Illustration of Padmasana yoga pose from manuscript of Hatha Yoga Pradipika, 1830.]]

	Padmasana (Sanskrit पद्मासन, IAST padmāsana), known in English as the lotus position or lotus pose, is a sitting posture. It is also called Kamalasana. The Sanskrit name padmāsana is formed from the words padma “lotus flower”<ref>[https://learnsanskrit.cc/translate?search=padma&dir=se ''Results for„padma“''] In: ''learnsanskrit.cc.'' Retrieved December 13 2025 </ref> and āsana ‘seat’ or, more generally, “posture.” <ref>[https://www.learnsanskrit.cc/translate?search=Asana&dir=au ''Results for „Asana“.''] In: ''learnsanskrit.cc.'' Retrieved December 13 2025.</ref> „Kamala“ also refers to the lotus flower. <ref>[https://learnsanskrit.cc/translate?search=kamala&dir=au ''Results for „kamala“.''] In: ''learnsanskrit.cc.'' Retrieved December 13 2025.</ref> Padmasana is used as a sitting position for [[meditation]]. As a classic sitting position, Padmasana is part of the 84 main exercises of Hatha Yoga. It is practiced in almost all styles of yoga.		Padmasana (Sanskrit पद्मासन, IAST padmāsana), known in English as the lotus position or lotus pose, is a sitting posture. It is also called Kamalasana. The Sanskrit name padmāsana is formed from the words padma “lotus flower”<ref>[https://learnsanskrit.cc/translate?search=padma&dir=se ''Results for„padma“''] In: ''learnsanskrit.cc.'' Retrieved December 13 2025 </ref> and āsana ‘seat’ or, more generally, “posture.” <ref>[https://www.learnsanskrit.cc/translate?search=Asana&dir=au ''Results for „Asana“.''] In: ''learnsanskrit.cc.'' Retrieved December 13 2025.</ref> „Kamala“ also refers to the lotus flower. <ref>[https://learnsanskrit.cc/translate?search=kamala&dir=au ''Results for „kamala“.''] In: ''learnsanskrit.cc.'' Retrieved December 13 2025.</ref> Padmasana is used as a sitting position for [[meditation]]. As a classic sitting position, Padmasana is part of the 84 main exercises of Hatha Yoga. It is practiced in almost all styles of yoga.

Line 48:		Line 52:
	p. 134 </ref>		p. 134 </ref>

	[[file:PadmasanaHG.JPG\|~~50px~~\|~~frame~~\|Heinz Grill in Padmasana with the hands placed on the knees]]		[[file:PadmasanaHG.JPG\|280px\|thumb\|Heinz Grill in Padmasana with the hands placed on the knees]]

Xenja: /* Symbology of the Lotus Flower */

2026-02-11T22:44:45Z

Symbology of the Lotus Flower

← Older revision		Revision as of 00:44, 12 February 2026
Line 2:		Line 2:

	=Symbology of the Lotus Flower=		=Symbology of the Lotus Flower=

			[[File:Nelumno nucifera open flower - botanic garden adelaide2.jpg\|thumb\|Lotus flower - Nelumbo nucifera - which holds deep spiritual significance e.g. in Buddhism and Hinduism]]

	In Hinduism, the lotus flower symbolizes creation and regeneration, which are attributed to a female divine principle. Various deities are depicted as being born from the calyx of the lotus flower. <ref name=":0">[https://hydrophyllum.it/blog/simbologia-del-fior-di-loto-n24 ''Simbologia del Fior di Loto.''] In: ''hydrophyllum.it.'' Retrieved January 16 2026 (italian).</ref>		In Hinduism, the lotus flower symbolizes creation and regeneration, which are attributed to a female divine principle. Various deities are depicted as being born from the calyx of the lotus flower. <ref name=":0">[https://hydrophyllum.it/blog/simbologia-del-fior-di-loto-n24 ''Simbologia del Fior di Loto.''] In: ''hydrophyllum.it.'' Retrieved January 16 2026 (italian).</ref>

Xenja at 15:58, 25 January 2026

2026-01-25T15:58:07Z

← Older revision		Revision as of 17:58, 25 January 2026
Line 64:		Line 64:
	=References=		=References=
	<references/>		<references/>

			[[Category:Asana]]

← Older revision		Revision as of 22:20, 12 April 2026
Line 57:		Line 57:
	In addition to Padmasana, Swami Vishnudevananda mentions other meditation postures: ''Siddhasana'', ''Svastikasana'' and ''Sukhasana''. He recommends the ''Vajrasana'' sitting posture for people who are unable to adopt any of the other postures.		In addition to Padmasana, Swami Vishnudevananda mentions other meditation postures: ''Siddhasana'', ''Svastikasana'' and ''Sukhasana''. He recommends the ''Vajrasana'' sitting posture for people who are unable to adopt any of the other postures.
	<gallery class="center" widths="150px" heights="220px">		<gallery class="center" widths="150px" heights="220px">
	~~[[File:Siddhasana.jpeg\|200px\|thumb\|left\|''Siddhasana'' - One foot is crossed over the lower leg of the other leg.]]~~

	[[File:~~Jogapradipika 1 Svastikasana~~.~~jpg~~\|200px\|thumb\|''~~Svastikasana~~'' - ~~Crossing~~ the ~~legs, but unlike Padmasana,~~ the ~~feet do not rest on the thighs, but are in contact with the lower legs~~.		File:Siddhasana.jpeg\|200px\|thumb\|left\|''Siddhasana'' - One foot is crossed over the lower leg of the other leg.
	]]

	[[File:~~Sukhasana~~.~~jpeg~~\|200px\|thumb~~\|left~~\|''~~Sukhasana~~'' - ~~Both~~ feet are ~~under~~ the ~~thighs~~.]]		File:Jogapradipika 1 Svastikasana.jpg\|200px\|thumb\|''Svastikasana'' - Crossing the legs, but unlike Padmasana, the feet do not rest on the thighs, but are in contact with the lower legs.

	[[File:IMG 8789.JPG\|200px\|thumb\|left\|''Vajrasana'' - Heel position.]]		File:Sukhasana.jpeg\|200px\|thumb\|left\|''Sukhasana'' - Both feet are under the thighs.

			File:IMG 8789.JPG\|200px\|thumb\|left\|''Vajrasana'' - Heel position.
			</gallery>

	According to Heinz Grill, it is also possible to assume the meditation posture on a chair. However, it is important "to bring a certain degree of gathering to the base of the body, really straightening up the back well, out of the sacrum, out of the centre and with the entire chest region, so that the head seems as if it is supported."<ref>[https://heinz-grill.de/en/the-ideal-posture-for-meditation/ Heinz Grill: ''The ideal posture for Meditation''] retrieved December 1st 2025 </ref>		According to Heinz Grill, it is also possible to assume the meditation posture on a chair. However, it is important "to bring a certain degree of gathering to the base of the body, really straightening up the back well, out of the sacrum, out of the centre and with the entire chest region, so that the head seems as if it is supported."<ref>[https://heinz-grill.de/en/the-ideal-posture-for-meditation/ Heinz Grill: ''The ideal posture for Meditation''] retrieved December 1st 2025 </ref>

← Older revision		Revision as of 22:17, 12 April 2026
Line 57:		Line 57:
	In addition to Padmasana, Swami Vishnudevananda mentions other meditation postures: ''Siddhasana'', ''Svastikasana'' and ''Sukhasana''. He recommends the ''Vajrasana'' sitting posture for people who are unable to adopt any of the other postures.		In addition to Padmasana, Swami Vishnudevananda mentions other meditation postures: ''Siddhasana'', ''Svastikasana'' and ''Sukhasana''. He recommends the ''Vajrasana'' sitting posture for people who are unable to adopt any of the other postures.
	<gallery class="center" widths="150px" heights="220px">		<gallery class="center" widths="150px" heights="220px">
	[[File:Siddhasana.jpeg\|thumb\|left\|''Siddhasana'' - One foot is crossed over the lower leg of the other leg.]]		[[File:Siddhasana.jpeg\|200px\|thumb\|left\|''Siddhasana'' - One foot is crossed over the lower leg of the other leg.]]

	[[File:Jogapradipika 1 Svastikasana.jpg\|thumb\|''Svastikasana'' - Crossing the legs, but unlike Padmasana, the feet do not rest on the thighs, but are in contact with the lower legs.		[[File:Jogapradipika 1 Svastikasana.jpg\|200px\|thumb\|''Svastikasana'' - Crossing the legs, but unlike Padmasana, the feet do not rest on the thighs, but are in contact with the lower legs.
	]]		]]

	[[File:Sukhasana.jpeg\|thumb\|left\|''Sukhasana'' - Both feet are under the thighs.]]		[[File:Sukhasana.jpeg\|200px\|thumb\|left\|''Sukhasana'' - Both feet are under the thighs.]]

	~~[[File:IMG 8789.JPG\|thumb\|left\|''Vajrasana'' - Heel position.]]~~
	~~</gallery>~~



			[[File:IMG 8789.JPG\|200px\|thumb\|left\|''Vajrasana'' - Heel position.]]

	According to Heinz Grill, it is also possible to assume the meditation posture on a chair. However, it is important "to bring a certain degree of gathering to the base of the body, really straightening up the back well, out of the sacrum, out of the centre and with the entire chest region, so that the head seems as if it is supported."<ref>[https://heinz-grill.de/en/the-ideal-posture-for-meditation/ Heinz Grill: ''The ideal posture for Meditation''] retrieved December 1st 2025 </ref>		According to Heinz Grill, it is also possible to assume the meditation posture on a chair. However, it is important "to bring a certain degree of gathering to the base of the body, really straightening up the back well, out of the sacrum, out of the centre and with the entire chest region, so that the head seems as if it is supported."<ref>[https://heinz-grill.de/en/the-ideal-posture-for-meditation/ Heinz Grill: ''The ideal posture for Meditation''] retrieved December 1st 2025 </ref>

← Older revision		Revision as of 22:16, 12 April 2026
Line 53:		Line 53:
	einem spirituellen Übungsweg, Copyright 2018. p.129		einem spirituellen Übungsweg, Copyright 2018. p.129
	</ref>		</ref>
	=Other sitting postures =		=Other sitting postures=

			In addition to Padmasana, Swami Vishnudevananda mentions other meditation postures: ''Siddhasana'', ''Svastikasana'' and ''Sukhasana''. He recommends the ''Vajrasana'' sitting posture for people who are unable to adopt any of the other postures.
			<gallery class="center" widths="150px" heights="220px">
			[[File:Siddhasana.jpeg\|thumb\|left\|''Siddhasana'' - One foot is crossed over the lower leg of the other leg.]]

			[[File:Jogapradipika 1 Svastikasana.jpg\|thumb\|''Svastikasana'' - Crossing the legs, but unlike Padmasana, the feet do not rest on the thighs, but are in contact with the lower legs.
			]]

			[[File:Sukhasana.jpeg\|thumb\|left\|''Sukhasana'' - Both feet are under the thighs.]]

			[[File:IMG 8789.JPG\|thumb\|left\|''Vajrasana'' - Heel position.]]
			</gallery>




	According to Heinz Grill, it is also possible to assume the meditation posture on a chair. However, it is important "to bring a certain degree of gathering to the base of the body, really straightening up the back well, out of the sacrum, out of the centre and with the entire chest region, so that the head seems as if it is supported."<ref>[https://heinz-grill.de/en/the-ideal-posture-for-meditation/ Heinz Grill: ''The ideal posture for Meditation''] retrieved December 1st 2025 </ref>		According to Heinz Grill, it is also possible to assume the meditation posture on a chair. However, it is important "to bring a certain degree of gathering to the base of the body, really straightening up the back well, out of the sacrum, out of the centre and with the entire chest region, so that the head seems as if it is supported."<ref>[https://heinz-grill.de/en/the-ideal-posture-for-meditation/ Heinz Grill: ''The ideal posture for Meditation''] retrieved December 1st 2025 </ref>

	=References=		=References=
	<references/>		<references/>

	[[index.php?title=Category:Asana]]		[[index.php?title=Category:Asana]]

← Older revision		Revision as of 00:55, 9 March 2026
Line 1:		Line 1:
	Padmasana (Sanskrit पद्मासन, IAST padmāsana), known in English as the lotus position or lotus pose, is a sitting posture. It is also called Kamalasana. The Sanskrit name padmāsana is formed from the words padma ~~“lotus flower”~~<ref>[https://learnsanskrit.cc/translate?search=padma&dir=se ''Results ~~for„padma“~~''] In: ''learnsanskrit.cc.'' Retrieved December 13 2025 </ref> and āsana ~~‘seat’~~ or, more generally, ~~“posture~~.” <ref>[https://www.learnsanskrit.cc/translate?search=Asana&dir=au ''Results for „Asana“.''] In: ''learnsanskrit.cc.'' Retrieved December 13 2025.</ref> ~~„Kamala“~~ also refers to the lotus flower. <ref>[https://learnsanskrit.cc/translate?search=kamala&dir=au ''Results for ~~„kamala“~~.''] In: ''learnsanskrit.cc.'' Retrieved December 13 2025.</ref> Padmasana is used as a sitting position for [[meditation]]. As a classic sitting position, Padmasana is part of the 84 main exercises of Hatha Yoga. It is practiced in almost all styles of yoga.		'''Padmasana''' (Sanskrit पद्मासन, IAST padmāsana), known in English as the '''lotus position''' or '''lotus pose''', is a sitting posture. It is also called '''Kamalasana'''. The Sanskrit name ''padmāsana'' is formed from the words ''padma'' "lotus flower"<ref>[https://learnsanskrit.cc/translate?search=padma&dir=se ''Results for "padma"''] In: ''learnsanskrit.cc.'' Retrieved December 13 2025 </ref> and ''āsana'' "seat" or, more generally, "posture". <ref>[https://www.learnsanskrit.cc/translate?search=Asana&dir=au ''Results for „Asana“.''] In: ''learnsanskrit.cc.'' Retrieved December 13 2025.</ref> "Kamala" also refers to the lotus flower. <ref>[https://learnsanskrit.cc/translate?search=kamala&dir=au ''Results for "kamala".''] In: ''learnsanskrit.cc.'' Retrieved December 13 2025.</ref> Padmasana is used as a sitting position for [[meditation]]. As a classic sitting position, Padmasana is part of the 84 main exercises of [[w:Hatha Yoga\|Hatha Yoga]]. It is practiced in almost all styles of yoga.

	=Symbology of the Lotus Flower=		=Symbology of the Lotus Flower=
Line 13:		Line 13:
	=Padmasana in the ancient scriptures of yoga=		=Padmasana in the ancient scriptures of yoga=

	Padmasana is mentioned in [[y:Yoga Yajnavalkya\|Yoga Yajnavalkya]] (Sanskrit योगयाज्ञवल्क्य, IAST ‘'yoga-~~yājñavalkya’~~'), the oldest surviving text (13th century) containing descriptions of asanas.<ref>[https://wiki.yoga-vidya.de/Lotussitz#Yogatexte_und_Padmasana''Padmasana.''] In: ''yoga-vidya.de.'' Retrieved January 16 2026.</ref>		Padmasana is mentioned in [[w:Yoga Yajnavalkya\|Yoga Yajnavalkya]] (Sanskrit योगयाज्ञवल्क्य, IAST ''yoga-yājñavalkya''), the oldest surviving text (13th century) containing descriptions of asanas.<ref>[https://wiki.yoga-vidya.de/Lotussitz#Yogatexte_und_Padmasana''Padmasana.''] In: ''yoga-vidya.de.'' Retrieved January 16 2026.</ref>

	[[File:256px-Hatha Yoga Pradipika Bhasya, page 1, Raghunath temple library, Sanskrit, Devanagari.jpg\|frame\|Hatha Yoga Pradipika Bhasya, page 1, Raghunath temple library, Sanskrit]]		[[File:256px-Hatha Yoga Pradipika Bhasya, page 1, Raghunath temple library, Sanskrit, Devanagari.jpg\|frame\|Hatha Yoga Pradipika Bhasya, page 1, Raghunath temple library, Sanskrit]]
Line 19:		Line 19:
	In the [[w:Hathapradipika\|Hathapradipika]] (written in the 14th century), Padmasana is described in verse 44:		In the [[w:Hathapradipika\|Hathapradipika]] (written in the 14th century), Padmasana is described in verse 44:

	:"Now the lotus pose (padmāsana).Place the right foot on the left thigh, and the left on the right thigh, firmly hold the big toes with the hands crossed behind the back, put the chin on the chest and gaze at the tip of the nose. This, which destroys diseases for those who undertake the observances, is called the lotus pose." <ref>[ https://hathapradipika.online/ retrieved January 15 2025]</ref>		:"Now the lotus pose (padmāsana).Place the right foot on the left thigh, and the left on the right thigh, firmly hold the big toes with the hands crossed behind the back, put the chin on the chest and gaze at the tip of the nose. This, which destroys diseases for those who undertake the observances, is called the lotus pose."<ref>[ https://hathapradipika.online/ retrieved January 15 2025]</ref>

	In Verse 45 another variant of the position without crossing the arms is described:		In Verse 45 another variant of the position without crossing the arms is described:
	:"However, in another school [padmāsana is taught as follows]:Carefully put the upturned feet on the thighs and the upturned hands in the middle of the thighs,…"<ref>[ https://hathapradipika.online/ retrieved January 15 2025]</ref>		:"However, in another school [padmāsana is taught as follows]:Carefully put the upturned feet on the thighs and the upturned hands in the middle of the thighs,…"<ref>[ https://hathapradipika.online/ retrieved January 15 2025]</ref>

	The [[w:Gherandasamhita\|Gherandasamhita]] (probably written in the 17th century) refers to Padmasana in verse 8 as ~~“destroyer~~ of all ~~diseases”~~ (‘'This posture destroys all ~~diseases’~~'). The physical execution is described as in the Hathapradipika.<ref>[https://www.aghori.it/Gherandasamhita.pdf "Gherandasamhita"] p. 13 .</ref>		The [[w:Gherandasamhita\|Gherandasamhita]] (probably written in the 17th century) refers to Padmasana in verse 8 as "destroyer of all diseases" (''This posture destroys all diseases''). The physical execution is described as in the Hathapradipika.<ref>[https://www.aghori.it/Gherandasamhita.pdf "Gherandasamhita"] p. 13 .</ref>

	Verses 88–91 in Chapter 3 of the [[w:Shivasamhita\|Shivasamhita]] (written around 1700) are dedicated to Padmasana. Verse 88 mentions the protective and healing effects of the sitting position: "I now describe the Padmasana which wards off (or cures) all diseases....<ref name=":1">[https://archive.org/stream/SivaSamhita/SivaSamhita_djvu.txt „Shiva Samhita“ ] retrieved January 15 2026 </ref> Verse 91 concludes the discussion of Padmasana with the words: "Sitting in the Padmasana posture, and knowing the action of the prana and apana, when the Yogi performs the regulation of the breath, he is emancipated. I tell you the truth. Verily, I tell you the truth.		Verses 88–91 in Chapter 3 of the [[w:Shivasamhita\|Shivasamhita]] (written around 1700) are dedicated to Padmasana. Verse 88 mentions the protective and healing effects of the sitting position: "I now describe the Padmasana which wards off (or cures) all diseases....<ref name=":1">[https://archive.org/stream/SivaSamhita/SivaSamhita_djvu.txt „Shiva Samhita“ ] retrieved January 15 2026 </ref> Verse 91 concludes the discussion of Padmasana with the words: "Sitting in the Padmasana posture, and knowing the action of the prana and apana, when the Yogi performs the regulation of the breath, he is emancipated. I tell you the truth. Verily, I tell you the truth."<ref name=":1" />
	" <ref name=":1" />

	=Physical execution=		=Physical execution=
Line 38:		Line 37:
	Iyengar begins the asana in a seated position with legs extended. Then the right leg is bent, the right foot is grasped with the hands and placed at the root of the left thigh so that the heel is close to the navel. Now the left leg is bent, the left foot is grasped with the hands and placed over the right leg. The heel should also be close to the navel. The soles of the feet are turned upward.		Iyengar begins the asana in a seated position with legs extended. Then the right leg is bent, the right foot is grasped with the hands and placed at the root of the left thigh so that the heel is close to the navel. Now the left leg is bent, the left foot is grasped with the hands and placed over the right leg. The heel should also be close to the navel. The soles of the feet are turned upward.

	:"People not used to sitting on the floor seldom have flexible knees. At the start they will feel excruciating pain around the knees. By perseverance and continued practice the pain will gradually subside and they can then stay in the pose comfortably for a long time." <ref name=":2" >[https://ia800108.us.archive.org/29/items/in.ernet.dli.2015.149689/2015.149689.Light-On-Yoga_text.pdf ~~„Light~~ on ~~Yoga“~~]</ref>		:"People not used to sitting on the floor seldom have flexible knees. At the start they will feel excruciating pain around the knees. By perseverance and continued practice the pain will gradually subside and they can then stay in the pose comfortably for a long time." <ref name=":2" >[https://ia800108.us.archive.org/29/items/in.ernet.dli.2015.149689/2015.149689.Light-On-Yoga_text.pdf "Light on Yoga"]</ref>

	The spine should remain straight. The arms can be stretched out and the right hand placed on the right knee and the left hand on the left knee. Alternatively, the hands can be positioned in the middle, where the feet cross. Iyengar furthermore recommends changing the position of the legs so that they develop evenly. <ref name=":2"/>		The spine should remain straight. The arms can be stretched out and the right hand placed on the right knee and the left hand on the left knee. Alternatively, the hands can be positioned in the middle, where the feet cross. Iyengar furthermore recommends changing the position of the legs so that they develop evenly. <ref name=":2"/>