Sukhasana - History of a unique sitting position

The history of the tailor's seat:
The cross-legged pose, also known as "Sukhasana" in the yoga tradition, has a millennia-old history rooted in various cultures around the world. Originally practiced in India , this posture was used for meditation, prayer, and teaching. It symbolizes calm, stability, and a deep connection to the earth, and not without reason. Over the centuries, the cross-legged pose has maintained its relevance in spiritual practices around the globe.

The cross-legged position also plays a central role in Buddhist traditions. It is considered a suitable posture for long meditation sessions because it provides a stable and comfortable position that promotes concentration and mindfulness. Many Buddha statues depict the enlightened being in a variation of the cross-legged position, underscoring the importance of this posture in Buddhist meditation.

In Japan, the kneeling position, with the legs folded under the body, is more common, but the cross-legged position is also practiced in certain traditional contexts, such as when drinking tea or practicing certain martial arts.

In the Western world, the cross-legged position has become increasingly popular with the growing popularity of yoga and meditation. It is used not only in spiritual or physical practices but also as an alternative sitting posture in the workplace to promote flexibility and reduce health problems that can arise from prolonged sitting in chairs.

Health benefits of the cross-legged position:

A significant benefit, which also justifies the relevance of the cross-legged position in spiritual practices, is the improvement of breathing. The open position of the upper body in this sitting posture allows the breath to flow more deeply, leading to better oxygenation of the body and increased relaxation.

But the practice of sitting cross-legged offers numerous other health benefits. For example, sitting cross-legged promotes a natural spinal alignment, supports overall better posture, and can relieve back and hip pain. It also increases flexibility in the hips and legs, which helps prevent muscular imbalances and joint problems. Furthermore, sitting cross-legged supports digestion by providing a gentle massage to the abdominal organs, thus improving digestive function.

Overall, the cross-legged position is a fascinating example of how a simple posture can have profound cultural, spiritual, and health significance that spans continents and millennia.

Conclusion : The cross-legged position is more than just a sitting posture; it's a bridge between past and present, connecting body and mind. With our cross-legged chairs, we offer you the opportunity to integrate this time-honored practice into your modern life. Discover the health benefits and experience how a simple change in your sitting habits can sustainably improve your well-being.