Benefits of Swastikasana

What is Swastikasana?

The Swastikasana is a very significant yoga pose, since the word ‘swastika’ means auspicious. It is also very useful as a meditative yoga pose.

In Sanskrit, the word Swastika can also be broken up into three parts ‘Su-asti-ka’, which denotes being healthy and well. In ancient times, the word also denoted happiness and was sometimes used for hailing others.  Thus, traditionally the word was used as a sacred benediction.

Another important connotation is the symbol of swastika which represents a cross. In the Swastikasana, the posture of the yogi is considered auspicious because the crossing of the arms and legs resembles this Swastika, and it is supposed to be an effective posture for yoga meditation techniques.

Step-by-step sequence:

  • Sit cross-legged on the floor with your spine erect. Keep your hands by the side, with the palms resting flat on the ground, and the fingers pointing forward.

  • Place the left heel on the inner side of the right thigh, keeping the soles between the thigh and calf muscles. Do the same with the left leg.

  • Place the right hand on the right knee and the left hand on the left knee in the Jnana Mudra (Knowledge gesture).

  • Keeping your spine and neck erect, sit still with your eyes closed. Your mind should not be filled with wandering thoughts.

  • In the beginning, you will be able to sit for about 10 minutes in this posture. Gradually, you will be able to increase this period up to 2 or 3 hours. It is then that you will be able to experience the true yoga meditation benefits of this pose.

  • To release the pose, stretch out one leg and then the other, and keep them side by side.


Benefits:

  • This asana is very relaxing and improves ones concentration, and that is why it is useful for learning, attaining knowledge and particularly for meditation.

  • It is also used as a relaxation between other yoga sitting poses and also as a preparation for other yoga poses.

  • The Jnana Mudra slows down breathing and stabilizes pulse beats. This in turn helps to reduce strain on the heart.

  • During Swastikasana, the backbone has to be kept erect, thus strengthening the muscles in the spinal area and improving their function. It has been found useful in relieving symptoms of those who suffer from sciatica.

  • The abdominal muscles also get toned in this pose, thus helping weight and fat loss in that area.

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