There is a history behind the practiced position of Yoga. It has its benefits but not the reason for its origin. You can meditate wonderfully and with the same results without the stress of the traditional and fashionable physical positioning.
From the ‘upstart’ the common human did not have the luxuries of chairs, cushions, even a bed with a mattress. Come on, folks, get real. Yes, it’s ‘cool’ to be able to cross your legs, bend your hips, and endure the pain of ankles and knees and hips while you try to focus upon the ‘inner self’. More power to you if that is what is right for you.
The reality is simple. This position enabled the individual to focus beyond the ‘body-self’ without falling over as he/she sat on a rock, a floor or braced themselves against a wall or log. It’s no different than putting a wide enough base and brace under a table or chair to keep it upright. And, in historical and current cultures, sitting without the proverbial chair is an everyday experience; thus, conditioning the body for the ‘yoga type’ sitting.
There are certain principles, however, that one needs to consider as they sit in a comfortable chair or even lay on a bed while meditating. The alignments of the spine and vortexes, even of hands and feet, is important. As one gains a knowledge of the many purposes of ‘meditation’ these factors gain in significance.
This commentary is not intended to criticize anything or anyone. Rather, reassure you, anyone, that meditation and its benefits can be easily achieved without the fashionable image or positions so commonly implanted in our minds and mentors.
Clay (The Universal Infidel)
I love yoga, but I understand what yo uare saying. when I do yoga I get my mine clear and off my thoughts! There are definely different ways to meditate! I love meditating with music also! I find meditation a time to go within and feel Gods presence
Your piece on meditation without yoga makes me feel better cause I cannot sit like that!