Pose Name: Sukhasana (Sanskrit: सुखासन; IAST: Sukhāsana)
Sukha = Happy/Easy, Asana = Pose/Posture
Meaning: Easy Pose
Sukhasana is a posture found in all yoga practice. Easy pose is a comfortable seated position, often used for meditation. Sometimes known as Decent pose, Easy Seat / Pose or Pleasant Pose, this posture is a wonderful and relaxed alternative to half or full lotus pose, and is a great place to rest for breathing exercises, intention setting and meditation.
Benefits of Easy Pose
Sukhasana/Easy pose helps to find stillness and tranquility in the the body and mind. Physically the pose will open the joints of the hips and top of the knees and ankles. The external leg muscles receive some extension and the back and neck are long and straight. This pose promotes grounding, stillness and a peaceful disposition. The asana may assist to unlock the hips, lengthen the back muscles and relax/extend the spine. This posture may improve circulation in the outer body.
By focusing on remaining still and watching the breath in this position, the mind finds calm very quickly helping to eliminate stress and anxiety. This posture helps to open the root chakra “muladhara”.
How to Perform Sukhasana/Easy Pose Pose: Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1
Sit on the ground or a yoga mat with legs stretched out in front. Bend the legs placing each foot under the opposite thigh.
Try Manduka Enlight Bolster
Step 2
Lean forward and if needed help the buttocks backwards to allow you to sit down with your seat bones in contact with the mat or floor.
See also Mountain Pose/Tadasana
Step 3
Sit tall aiming to create a straight line from your sacrum/tail bone to the top of the head. Consciously lengthen the spine until you are sitting full erect in a relaxed but active position.
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Step 4
Close down the eyes or direct dristi off into the distance with unfocused eyes. Take a few deep calming breaths.
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Step 5
Moving from the top of the head down to the toes, consciously allow each muscle to relax, they are not needed in this pose.
Try Round Eco-Yoga/Meditation Mat
Step 6
Once you have achieved a relaxed body and settled into the pose, take a few minutes to an hour to meditate, chant or adopt your mudra of choice.
Try Gaiam Zafu Round Meditation Pillow
Contraindications and Cautions
If you have a history with knee, hip or joint pain, you may like to try sitting on top of a folded blanket or bolster so that your knees are lower than your hips, this should lessen the strain. If sitting for long periods or needed due to back pain, you could use a meditation chair or lean against a wall. When using sukhasana for meditation purposes it is ok to sit comfortably and focus less on perfection of the posture.
Ensure the pose is performed in a safe place with no distractions. Avoid performing if any pain is experienced or joint issues exist. Always consult a medical professional before attempting any exercise.
See also Yoga Poses to Increase Brain Power
SERIES: How to Perform Yoga Series
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