Meditation Poses: 5 Anxiety-Reducing Positions You’ve Got to Try!

Meditation dates back to as long ago as 10,000 BC and is believed to be first practiced in India. Hinduism, and its offshoot Buddhism, lead us to the very taproot of yoga and meditation. Around the world, and throughout time, meditation principles and yoga, whilst at core, remain changed; their outer practice has evolved with modern times. Now most people meditate for anxiety-management and use it as a tool for peace of mind.

There are many ways in which people meditate, some like to simply sit comfortably in a chair, and some prefer to stand on one leg! Regardless, follow on for Meditation Poses: 5 Anxiety-Reducing Positions You’ve Got to Try!

1. Lotus Position

Lotus position is probably the most popular position for meditation, and is suited to most people. You can modify this position to a half-lotus, where your feet sit lower than your legs, or even on the ground, as the flexibility in many people’s hip-flexors might not allow them to sit comfortably in a full lotus.

Comfort in meditation is important for focus, though some seek more challenging positions to stimulate their bodies and clear their minds!

2. On Your Knees

This pose, also known as vajrasana, is a great meditation posture for those with less flexibility, and there is less strain on your hips than in lotus position. You can sit on a pillow or a foam block, placed between your ankles and upper thighs, to take some strain off your knees. Additionally, this position should be done on a soft surface, since our knees are easy to strain and become sore. Simply relax your hands by your side, on your knees, or on your lap, with your palms up.

3. Corpse Pose (Savasana)

Corpse pose is a favourite for many, since this pose allows you to relax every single one of your muscles. Just lay on your back, close your eyes, and stay still. Whichever meditation posture you choose, always make sure to straighten your spine as much as possible – this will improve your air (life energy or prana) flow and do wonders if you happen to have a sore back or neck.

Airflow and comfort are two main factors that affect your anxiety and mood in meditation, so make sure to optimise both!

4. On a Chair

If you don’t fancy getting down on the floor to meditate, simply pull out a flat back chair and sit with your spine straight. Let your arms dangle at your sides or rest your hands palms-up on your lap. Just make sure not to tense your muscles!

When easing anxiety, it is important we are completely relaxed in our body, so that we can next relax our mind. To feel the full benefit of this pose, sit on a comfy cushion. If you’re feeling adventurous, why not attempt the chair pose

5. Burmese Posture

The Burmese posture is similar to lotus but allows you to stretch different muscles in your legs. Fold your legs in front of you and keep your feet on the ground without crossing them.

This will give your thighs an amazing stretch; many people enjoy the challenge of balancing which this pose offers. Some people will benefit from a challenging position, where they can move their stress and focus from the ‘real world’ on to holding the position instead.

Many people just starting out only give meditation one chance before deciding it’s not for them. However, every human is different in so many ways, so one pose, or one way won’t necessarily work the same for everyone. You will be able to relax better with your body fully at ease, or you may benefit more from a powerful stretch. Try out a few of the meditation poses above, then let us know your favourites in the comments below, and join in the conversation on FacebookTwitter & Instagram!

Definitely don’t forget to check out our epic interview with veteran yoga teacher, author and influencer, Ana Forrest!

Rachel Stevens

Rachel is a Health Psychology Masters student at De Montfort University, specializing in physical exercise for better mental health during the COVID-19 pandemic. She is a passionate vegan as well as a long-time cardio-dance fitness devotee. Rachel wants to move into a career where she can encourage people to take up exercise which they will wholeheartedly delight in, as well as a diet which is healthy for both body and mind. Ultimately, she strives to address the growing mental health issues in our population through the route of a healthy lifestyle.

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