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Yoga has been helping people achieve deep physical and mental relaxation for thousands of years. It originated in India around 5,000 years ago and has been embraced by the West in recent years, where hatha yoga is mostly practiced. Hatha yoga focuses mostly on posture which involves stretching and aligning the body. It also works with the breath and may include meditation to calm the mind. The half lotus position and the sun salutation sequence are discussed below.
The half lotus position
The half lotus position encourages concentration and breath control. Sit on a mat with your legs to the front. Bend your right leg so that you’re able to place your right foot near your left thigh. Drop your knee outwards towards the floor.
Now you can bend your left knee and bring your left foot under your right leg. Allow your left knee to drop towards the floor. Rest your hands on your knees and relax, straightening your spine in the process. Note that your palms should be facing downwards.
Meditating in the half lotus position
This position is generally used for meditation. Meditation and yoga help to calm and focus the mind, allowing for inner peace and relaxation. The pulse and breathing rates are slowed down and the brain’s alpha waves increase. Over the long term, this can reduce stress, anxiety, high blood pressure, insomnia and general fatigue.
A simple form of meditation is to sit in the above-mentioned position, close your eyes and focus on your breath. Accept thoughts as they come and go, while allowing them to float away while you continue to focus on your breathing.
The sun salutation sequence
The sun salutation is a flowing sequence of poses which is traditionally carried out at dawn. Each pose is held for only a few seconds. The sequence helps to oxygenate the body while releasing tension and improving circulation.
It also improves flexibility and body tone. Try practicing the sequence four times a week in order to build up to 10 sequences a day.
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