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photo from Eco Nikko, Japan
PHOTO ESSAY
PADMASANA IN PARADISE Up from the mud, the lotus blossoms.
The lotus flower’s unique ability to rise up from the murky depths by day to blossom, then retreat back down by night has inspired Hindus, Jainists, Buddhists and even ancient Egyptians. The benefits of lotus pose are said to be improved digestion and posture, relaxed mind, keeps lower limbs loose and limber. Although it has the reputation as being the ultimate sitting position, padmasana is not suitable for everybody. There are plenty of other sitting options for pranayama or meditation, which are preferable to forcing yourself in and risk damaging knees and hips. 14
NAMASKAR