Yoga Chikitsa · Primary · Finishing Sequence
Padmasana
Lotus pose
What it is
Padmasana, lotus pose, is the classic seated position of yoga and is used at the end of the Ashtanga practice.
What it looks like
Each foot rests on the opposite thigh, the spine is upright, and the hands rest on the knees. It is held for several slow breaths.
Why it is practised
It is a stable seat for focusing on the breath before the final poses. In Ashtanga the final seated poses are often a time for slow, deep breathing with the eyes softly focused. The shape itself matters less than sitting comfortably upright with a steady breath. Sitting this way for a few breaths is simple but valuable.
What to pay attention to
Lotus should never be forced into place. If it is not comfortable, sit cross-legged or in half lotus. Keep the spine upright and the shoulders relaxed.
Who it suits
Anyone, using a simpler seated position if needed.
Next in the sequence: Utpluthih.
A seated cross of the legs, used in the closing. The spine is upright; the hands rest or bind as the count requires.
If lotus is not available, the same seat is taken in a simpler cross. The point is stillness after the series, not a forced knot.
Practise this Primary pose in a Mysore-style room, or in a private session in Dubai or online.
See session formats, upcoming dates and the shala, or book a place with Ashtanga Yoga Dubai.