Sitting Postures in Yoga Asana,The ancient text of the Gherand Samhita, a seminal work on Hatha Yoga, emphasizes the significance of sitting postures, or asanas, in the practice of yoga. The Gherand Samhita, attributed to the sage Gheranda, is one of the key texts in the Hatha Yoga tradition and offers a comprehensive guide to the physical and spiritual aspects of yoga. This text categorizes yoga into seven limbs (Saptangas), one of which is Asana, the practice of physical postures.
Understanding the Gherand Samhita
Before delving into the importance of sitting postures as per the Gherand Samhita, it is essential to understand the context and structure of this ancient text. The Gherand Samhita is structured into seven chapters, each dedicated to one of the seven limbs of yoga:
1. Shatkarma (purification)
2. Asana (postures)
3. Mudra (gestures)
4. Pratyahara (withdrawal)
5. Pranayama (breathing)
6. Dhyana (meditation)
7. Samadhi (absorption)
Among these, the second chapter focuses on Asanas and describes 32 postures, emphasizing their benefits for physical health and spiritual growth.
Importance of Sitting Postures in Yoga Asana
Stability and Comfort
One of the primary reasons the Gherand Samhita emphasizes sitting postures is for achieving stability (sthira) and comfort (sukha). Stability is crucial for sustaining longer periods of meditation and pranayama, where the practitioner needs to remain still and focused.
Comfort ensures that the practitioner can maintain the posture without experiencing pain or discomfort, which can be distracting and counterproductive to the practice.
Alignment and Energy Flow
Proper sitting postures ensure that the spine is aligned correctly. An aligned spine is vital for the efficient flow of prana (life force) through the body’s energy channels (nadis). According to the Gherand Samhita, when the spine is straight, the main energy channel, Sushumna Nadi, allows Kundalini energy to rise from the base of the spine to the crown of the head, facilitating higher states of consciousness.
Grounding and Connection
Sitting postures foster a sense of grounding and connection to the earth. This grounding effect helps practitioners remain present and focused, which is essential for deepening meditation and achieving a calm, centered state of mind.
Postures like Padmasana (Lotus Pose) and Siddhasana (Adept’s Pose) create a stable base, anchoring the body and mind during practice.
Key Sitting Postures in Gherand Samhita
The Gherand Samhita describes several key sitting postures, each with specific benefits and purposes. Here are some of the most important ones:
Padmasana (Lotus Pose)
Description:
Padmasana is one of the most recognized and revered postures in yoga. The practitioner sits with each foot placed on the opposite thigh, creating a symmetrical, cross-legged position.
Benefits:
Promotes physical stability and mental equilibrium.
• Enhances concentration and meditation.
• Stimulates the pelvis, spine, abdomen, and bladder.
• Reduces muscle tension and stress.
Spiritual Significance:
Padmasana symbolizes purity and enlightenment. It is often depicted in images of deities and enlightened beings, highlighting its spiritual importance.
Siddhasana (Adept’s Pose)
Description:
Siddhasana involves sitting with one heel pressed against the perineum and the other heel placed on top of the first heel or in front of the pubic bone.
Benefits:
Supports the alignment of the spine and pelvic region.
• Facilitates the control of sexual energy, channeling it towards spiritual growth.
• Enhances concentration and steadiness of the mind.
• Helps in balancing the body’s energy systems.
Spiritual Significance:
Siddhasana is considered one of the best postures for meditation and pranayama due to its ability to direct energy upwards through the spine, promoting spiritual awakening.
Vajrasana (Thunderbolt Pose)
Description:
In Vajrasana, the practitioner kneels and sits back on their heels with the thighs resting on the calves.
Benefits:
• Improves digestion and relieves digestive issues.
• Strengthens the pelvic muscles and lower back.
• Enhances blood circulation in the lower abdomen.
• Promotes a calm and stable mind.
Spiritual Significance:
Vajrasana is often used for meditation and breathing exercises. It is believed to help in calming the mind and preparing the body for deeper spiritual practices.
Also read:DHARMA and KARMA
Physiological Benefits
The physiological benefits of sitting postures, as outlined in the Gherand Samhita, are profound and multifaceted. These postures impact various bodily systems, promoting overall health and well-being.
Improved Circulation
Sitting postures enhance blood flow, particularly to the lower extremities and pelvic region. This improved circulation helps in nourishing the organs and tissues, ensuring optimal function and vitality.
Enhanced Flexibility and Strength
Regular practice of sitting postures increases flexibility in the hips, knees, and ankles. It also strengthens the muscles of the back and core, contributing to better posture and reduced risk of injuries.
Stress Relief
Sitting postures induce a state of relaxation by calming the nervous system. This stress-relief effect helps in reducing anxiety and mental tension, fostering a sense of peace and well-being.
Psychological Benefits
In addition to the physical benefits, the Gherand Samhita highlights the psychological advantages of sitting postures.
Improved Concentration and Focus
Sitting postures stabilize the body, which in turn stabilizes the mind. This stabilization enhances concentration, making it easier to focus on meditation and other mental practices.
Emotional Balance
The grounding nature of sitting postures helps in balancing emotions. It reduces the occurrence of mood swings and promotes a stable, calm mental state, essential for emotional well-being.
Spiritual Benefits
The spiritual benefits of sitting postures are central to the teachings of the Gherand Samhita.
Facilitation of Pranayama and Meditation
Sitting postures provide a stable and comfortable base for pranayama (breathing exercises) and meditation. They ensure that the practitioner can remain still for extended periods, facilitating deeper states of meditation and breath control.
Awakening of Kundalini
Sitting postures like Padmasana and Siddhasana are designed to direct energy upwards through the spine, aiding in the awakening of Kundalini energy. This spiritual awakening is a key goal in the practice of Hatha Yoga.
Practical Tips for Practicing Sitting Postures
To maximize the benefits of sitting postures, it is essential to practice them correctly. Here are some practical tips:
Start Slowly
If you are new to sitting postures, start slowly and gradually increase the duration of your practice. Allow your body to adapt to the new positions to avoid strain and injury.
Use Props
Props like cushions, blocks, and blankets can provide additional support and comfort, especially for beginners. They help in maintaining proper alignment and prevent discomfort.
Focus on Alignment
Ensure that your spine is straight and your shoulders are relaxed. Proper alignment is crucial for the flow of energy and for preventing strain on the muscles and joints.
Breathe Mindfully
Incorporate mindful breathing into your practice. Deep, slow breaths can enhance relaxation and concentration, making your sitting posture practice more effective.
Conclusion Sitting Postures in Yoga Asana
The Gherand Samhita underscores the importance of sitting postures in yoga asana practice for their myriad benefits on physical, psychological, and spiritual levels. Stability, comfort, alignment, and energy flow are central to the practice of these postures, facilitating deeper meditation and spiritual growth. By incorporating key sitting postures like Padmasana, Siddhasana, and Vajrasana into your routine, you can experience enhanced well-being and a profound sense of inner peace.
Embrace the wisdom of the Gherand Samhita and integrate these powerful sitting postures into your yoga practice to unlock their full potential. Whether you are a beginner or an advanced practitioner, the consistent practice of these postures will lead you towards greater health, mental clarity, and spiritual awakening.