Sit/Easy Position

The yoga sit/easy position is an effective and simple seated posture. Also known as Sukhasana, this asana (position) is perhaps the most practiced posture in all of yoga. It is relatively easy to accomplish and allows the practitioner to focus on breathing work (pranayama) or enter into a meditative state.

Why You Should Start with Easy Pose

Many practitioners wish to jump right into a lotus position, either half lotus or full lotus. This is because it looks impressive and is the posture most people imagine when they think of a yoga guru.

However, the benefits you will receive from easy pose are almost the same benefits you’ll receive from advanced seated poses. You will still strengthen your back, improve your posture and be poised for meditation. Additionally, attempting advanced seated positions before your body is ready can result in damage to your knees or hamstrings.

How to Accomplish Easy Pose

As the name implies, this is not a difficult pose. Almost anyone will be able to accomplish this pose. The below instructions will help you accomplish this pose and get the absolute most out of it.

1. Sit on the floor or your yoga mat with your legs extended in front of you.

2. Slightly widen your legs creating a V shape.

3. Touch the palm (bottom) of your left foot to the inside of your right thigh.

4. Touch the palm of your right to the inside of your left thigh. To accomplish this, you will have to slightly lift your left leg.

5. Your ankles should now be crossed and the bottoms of both feet should be touching the opposite thigh.

The below enhancements will ensure your form is correct and help you become comfortable in this pose.

• Your pelvis has two bones that will be touching the floor. Roll around slightly to find these bones. Make these two bones your primary contact with the floor and push into them.

• Imagine that there is a ceiling touching the top of your head and your purpose is to hold it up. Push up through the top of your skull. This elongates your spine and ensures ideal posture.

• Relax your shoulders. You may wish to do a few shoulder rolls to loosen them up.

Now that you know how to do a perfect easy pose, you’re ready to begin working on breathing and meditation! From this position, you can focus on your breath, your surroundings and your senses.