Breathing : Normal

Benefits:

• Padmasana allows the body to be held completely steady for long periods of time.

• It holds the trunk and head like a pillar with the legs as the firm foundation.

• As the body is steadied, the mind becomes calm. This steadiness and calmness is the first step towards real meditation. Padmasana directs the flow of prana from mooladhara chakra in the perineum to sahasrara chakra in the head, heightening the experience of meditation.

• This posture applies pressure to the lower spine, which has a relaxing effect on the nervous system.

• The breath becomes slow, muscular tension is decreased and

• Blood pressure is reduced.

• The normally large blood flow to the legs is redirected to the abdominal region. This activity also stimulates the digestive process.

Contra-indications: Those who suffer from sciatica or weak or injured knees should not perform this asana. This asana should not be attempted until flexibility of the knees has been developed through practice of the pre-meditation asanas. It is not advisable during pregnancy as the circulation in the legs is reduced