The Sanskrit word “Padma” means “lotus”. After the final position of this asana, the body takes the shape of a lotus. So this asana is called Padmasan. Padmasana is one of the important asanas and it is regarded as the best of all asanas.

Technique:

Spread a double-folded blanket on a clean and even ground and sit on it. Spread both legs forward . Now bend the right leg at the knee joint. If you feel pain in bending, bend as much as possible and sit comfortably in that position for sometime. Slowly after 3 or 4 days, your

leg can be bent easily . Now hold the ankle of the right leg with the right hand and catch the toes of the right leg with the left hand. Now draw it inside the right leg, lifting it upwards with the help of both hands. This action should be done carefully and slowly. Now, fix the heel of the right leg at the base of the left thigh with the help of both hands . Now bend the knee of the left leg and hold the ankle of the left leg with the left hand and hold the toes of the left foot with the right hand. Now lift it a little with the help of both hands and fix the left heel at the base of the right thigh . Fix the index fingers of both the hands at the base of 2 thumbs and spread out the 3 other fingers of both hands. Keep both hands on your knees in the position of Jnana Mudra.  If you wish you can sit in the position of Brahmanjali . This is the final posture of Padmasan. One experience blissful pleasant feeling throughout the body after attaining the final stage of Padmasan. It is like an electric charge. The index finger acts as the negative charge and the thumb as the positive. The whole body seems to have been charged with electric power. Keep your waist, back and neck straight in one line. You may keep your eyes open or closed. Sit for a little time in the beginning. Even 5 to 10 seconds in the beginning is enough.

Your capacity to sit for long hours in meditation increases with practice.

You can do Padmasana by changing the position of legs, i.e., by placing first the left and then the right heel at the base of the thighs .

Benefits:

Rheumatism can be cured by Padmasan. It diminishes the sex urge. It strengthens digestive power, removes constipation and improves appetite. It gives relief to those suffering from elephantiasis and gout of the legs. It is beneficial to those afflicted with the diseases of skin and heart. It strengthens and flexis the muscles of the waist and of the lower limbs. Regular practice of this asana brings steadiness and peace of mind. It paves the way for Pranayam and other yogic feats.