When you practice meditation you need to be in a comfortable position, using the correct posture. The back should remain straight during this time. If you naturally have poor posture, then sitting on a pillow can help to correct this issue. There are a couple of important principles that you should keep in mind regarding meditation positions. First, your posture should be both comfortable and allow you to relax. Next, your posture has to also allow you to remain aware and alert at all times.
Meditation Positions: Posture Makes Perfect
If you’re in an uncomfortable position during meditation then you will not be able to focus. If you’re unable to relax and enjoy your meditation then you won’t be able to release tension and the stresses of the day.
Some people mistakenly think that lying down is the appropriate position because it’s the most comfortable. But if you lie down your mind can become distracted or you can fall asleep.
The best position for meditation that’s comfortable and allows you to remain aware is the sitting position. You don’t have to sit on the floor or sit cross-legged. You can sit in a chair, or sit with your legs gently folded. Any position will do as long as your posture is good. Sitting in a cross-legged position can be difficult if you have a disability or aren’t very flexible. So make it easier on yourself and instead choose a sitting position that’s perfect for you and one that allows for deep focus and concentration.
Discomfort during meditation can be very distracting and can also be the body’s way of telling you that something isn’t right.
When setting up your posture for meditation, there are some common problems you’ll want to avoid in order to be more relaxed and comfortable. First, the spine needs to be upright. Never slump forward or allow the spine to take an exaggerated hollow position. The spine should only be slightly hollowed and relaxed.
The shoulders should also be relaxed and rolled back slightly. The hands should be supported by resting in your lap or placed on a cushion.
The head must be evenly balanced with the back of the neck remaining open and long and the chin tucked in slightly.
You will also need to focus on removing the tension from the face, allowing the eyes and jaw to remain relaxed.
Common Meditation Mistakes Made by Beginners
The most commonly seen mistake those new to meditation often make is attempting to contort themselves in a position that requires significantly more flexibility than the beginner possesses. This will result in significant distraction during meditation because the individual is focusing on the pain and discomfort that comes with contortion for newbies. A person is able to meditate just as well when sitting in an ordinary chair. Next, get rid of distractions. In the beginning, it will be difficult for you to focus on meditation while also maintaining good posture so remove any and all outside distractions to allow for a peaceful environment that promotes focus and relaxation.
