Physical Benefits

Sukhasana (soo-KAH-suh-nuh) opens the hips and lengthens the spine. Due to the lengthening of the spine, one’s breathing becomes deeper and easier, which also results in the relaxation of the other bodily systems – the nervous system, cardiovascular system, endocrine system, etc. This is a good replacement pose for Padmasana (Lotus Pose).

Energetic Benefits

Sukhasana is one of poses recommended by Sage Vyasa for meditation. This pose is easy on the hips and keeps the spine straight. The goal of yoga is to attain the state of samadhi, where the mind and the intelligence have the ability to reflect on the higher self which is brahman. The highest knowledge is to know that I am not this body-mind complex, that I am the unchanging brahman. This is the only knowledge that is essential for a yogi. The yogi seeks stability of the mind: when the mind is stable one is able to see clearly the actual self that is beyond the body-mind complex.

Contraindications

This pose should be avoided by those with knee injuries or a sprained ankle. Sit on a folded blanket and lean against a wall to keep the spine erect.

Going into the Pose