Padmasana

Padma means lotus. Padmasana acquires its name because when performed this resembles a lotus. This is also known as Kamalasana. This is best suited for meditation and for reciting mantras. It is beneficial to both men and women.

Technique:
Sit on the ground. Spread the legs forwards and place the right foot on the left thigh and left foot on the right thigh. Let the left hand rest on the left knee and the right hand on the right knee. Let the tips of the thumbs of both the hands touch the tips of the index fingers. Keep the head and spinal column erect. Keep your eyes close or open.
Those who can place only one leg on the thigh should practise this aasana daily with zeal. They will be able to perform this aasana easily after some practice.
Stay in the final position for one or two minutes in the initial stage. Later gradually increase the time.

Advantages:
1) This Aasana is useful for Japa, Pranayama, Dharana (Retention or Concentration) and Samadhi.
2)This Aasana stimulates the endocrine glands.
3)This Aasana is useful to cure diseases like asthma, insomnia and hysteria. It is greatly beneficial to the persons suffering from insomnia.
4)The Aasana relieves the body of its excessive fat and it increases the vitality.