Sukhasana is also known as Easy pose. You may know it as criss-cross applesauce. In less politically correct times, like when I was in school, we called it sitting Indian-style. The truth is, though, that you’ve been doing this yoga pose your whole life!

Although it may not come with the same ease as when you were a kindergartener, you should brush off the dust and work this yoga pose back into your daily life. (Those who have had hip replacement or other significant surgeries or injuries should always talk with their doctor before trying any new exercises.)

Before beginning Sukhasana, be aware that there is no specific breathing pattern. This position is used for breath work, opening, grounding, closing, and meditation, so it’s possible that you could be breathing in a variety of ways while in this pose.

Also, given the number of activities that you could be performing while in this position, be aware that you may be in this pose for quite a while. This is why it’s so crucial to get set up in correct, comfortable alignment right off the bat. Being set up correctly will help your body relax and prevent you from shifting and making unwanted noises while others meditate.

Sukhasana

1. Take a comfortable seat with your legs crossed at the shin or the ankle.
2. Make sure your knees are level with or lower than your hips. If you have tight hips, your knees will be elevated. Use props to get yourself into the correct position so that your body can relax.
3. If your knees are elevated, try sitting on a bolster, folded blanket, or blocks. By lifting your hips, you make it easier for your hips to relax. I prefer sitting on blocks because I like to feel my SITs bones press into a firm surface. If you are using blocks, I recommend keeping a small space between them. This space should align with your sacrum and prevent you from putting pressure on your tailbone.
4. Feel your SITs bones press down into the surface beneath you.
5. As you feel the energy travel down to the ground, feel how it also rises through your spine, allowing you to sit up straight with ease. Energy normally travels in opposite directions so, if you feel like your posture starts to wilt, reconnect your SITs bones to the ground and feel the natural lift through your spine.
6. Broaden your collarbones, and bring your shoulder blades onto your back.
7. Turn your palms toward the ceiling.
8. Connect your pointer finger and thumb.
9. Hold and breathe.

Sukhasana Video

Here is a video for visual learners.

What is your favorite thing to do while seated in Sukhasana? Let us know in the comments below.

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