VAJRASANA – THE ADAMANT POSTURE
‘I decide to strengthen my body and it begins with steadfastness of my mind.
Can a single idea stay in mind for a long? For material gain this is necessary; for spiritual growth imperative! Let me try it. Just one idea, nothing else’!
Vajrasana is the posture that enhances strength, unwaveringness, stability and virility.
Method of Practice
Starting Position
- Assume a kneeling position on a mat, the knees touching each other. Let the toes touch each other and the heels remain apart.
Steps
- Lower the body and sit comfortably on the hollow formed by the toes and heels.
- Hold the body erect, the head neck and body in a natural line, the abdomen held in normal contour.
- Place the hands upon their respective knees palms facing downwards.
- Close the eyes (or keep your gaze fixed at one point) and passively observe the breath. Sit for around five to ten minutes.
Posture Release
- Slowly open the eyes and gently assume…. to the starting position and gently stretch the legs forward.
Benefits
- Offers uniform postural fixity and corrects postural defects.
- Improves blood circulation to the abdominal region thus helping improve digestion.
- Beneficial in conditions like sciatica, severe lower back problems, constipation, stomach disorder, digestive problems, acidity.
- Flexibility of lower limbs develops. The generative organs are toned along with toning of the muscles of hips, thighs and calves.
- It aids in relief from urinary problems.
- This posture calms the mind and relaxes the nerves.
- Slow and rhythmic breathing in this position can induce a meditative state.
- Improves concentration as the mind remains focussed.
- Awareness of thoughts and mindfulness increases as we learn to be in the present
Limitations / Contraindications
- Acute arthritis
- Very high or low blood pressure
- When one is feeling low or depressed this posture helps if the eyes are kept open and the awareness is to keep the body still.