How To Sit In Meditation?

The Art of Settling Down: A Guide To Sitting In Meditation

Ah, meditation! The ancient practice that’s as much a part of human history as storytelling or stargazing. But here’s the kicker – despite its simplicity, getting the sitting part right can feel as tricky as trying to thread a needle on a bumpy bus ride. Don’t sweat it, though; by the end of this read, you’ll be prepped and ready to sit like a pro, or at least comfortably enough not to get distracted by the cramp in your left leg every five seconds.

Choose Your Throne Wisely

First things first, let’s talk about the throne, aka your seat for meditation. You might think any old spot will do, but oh boy, picking the right one can make a world of difference. Here’s a quick checklist:

1. Cushion or Bench? – A meditation cushion (often called a zafu) can be a game changer, offering just enough elevation to take the pressure off your hips and lower back. Not a fan of cushions? A meditation bench could be your new BFF, especially if you prefer a kneeling position.
2. The Ground Beneath You – Whether you choose to park yourself on a cushion, bench, or just the floor, ensure the surface underneath is level. A flat, stable foundation keeps your spine happy and your meditation smooth.

Perfecting the Pose

Now, let’s break down the nitty-gritty of sitting in meditation. Remember, the goal here is not to twist yourself into a pretzel but to find a sustainable position that you can hold comfortably. Here are the most popular options:

1. The Classic Cross-Legged – A timeless favorite, sitting cross-legged provides a stable base and is easy to get into. If your hips are tighter than a jar lid that won’t budge, try elevating your seat with a cushion.
2. Seiza Style – For those who find sitting cross-legged as comfortable as wearing shoes two sizes too small, the Seiza (kneeling) position might be your ticket to bliss. Using a bench or stacking a couple of cushions under your behind can offer extra comfort.
3. Chair Gang – If the floor feels about as inviting as a bed of nails, grab a chair. Yes, you read that right. Sitting in a chair for meditation is absolutely fine. Just make sure your feet touch the ground and your spine isn’t slouching like it’s auditioning for a role in a slump-off.

A Few Tips to Keep the Wiggle at Bay

Let’s be real; staying still can be a tall order. But with a couple of tricks up your sleeve, you can keep the wiggle to a minimum:

• Check Your Angles – Your knees should be lower than your hips. This angle helps keep your spine naturally aligned, which, in translation, means less fidgeting.
• Back Support Is Gold – If your back feels like it’s about to audition for a melodrama every time you sit down, get some support. A small pillow or rolled-up towel at the small of your back can work wonders.
• Go Ahead, Blink – If your eyes are dryer than a joke without a punchline because you’re trying the “stare-blankly-ahead” technique, just close them gently. Or, if you prefer a soft focus, let your gaze fall loosely on the ground a few feet ahead of you.

Mastering the art of sitting in meditation is a bit like learning to ride a bike – wobbly at first but oh-so-rewarding once you get the hang of it. So, take your time, find what feels right, and before you know it, you’ll be sitting pretty in meditation like it’s nobody’s business. Happy meditating!