SU
Beginnerseated

Sukhasana

सुखासन

Sukhasana (Easy Pose) is the most basic cross-legged seated position for meditation and pranayama.

Anatomy Involved

Benefits

5

Avoid If

2
  • Knee injuries — sit on blanket
  • Hip injuries

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Rounding the lower back — sit on a folded blanket if needed
Forcing the knees down — let gravity work naturally
Collapsing the chest and slouching forward
Tensing the neck and jaw
Rushing into the pose without proper alignment first
Holding tension — allow complete release in the supported position

Teaching Cues

For yoga teachers — verbal cues to guide students

6 cues
  • 1Sit on the front edge of your sitting bones
  • 2Lengthen the spine upward on each inhalation
  • 3Keep the chest lifted and shoulders relaxed
  • 4Ground down through the sitting bones
  • 5Maintain an elongated spine — avoid rounding the back
  • 6Surrender the weight of the body to the props and the floor

Pose Details

Helps With

anxietyinsomniaposture correction

Pose Type

restorative

Body Focus

hips

Focus Areas

relaxationbreathing

Best For

beginnersseniorsprenataldesk workers

Yoga Styles

hathaiyengarkundaliniyinrestorative

When to Practice

morningeveningrestorative

Position

seated

Modify If You Have

knee injury

Sit on a folded blanket to elevate hips above knees.

Target Areas

Upper BackLower Back

Practice Flow

About this Pose

Sukhasana (Easy Pose) is the most basic cross-legged seated position for meditation and pranayama.

How to Practice

1

1. Sit on the floor.

2

2. Cross legs comfortably — right foot under or over left.

3

3. Feet relaxed — no tension.

4

4. Spine erect, shoulders relaxed.

5

5. Hands on knees — palms down (calming) or up (receptive).

5 more steps remaining

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Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about Sukhasana

What is Sukhasana?

Sukhasana (Easy Pose) is the most basic cross-legged seated position for meditation and pranayama.

What are the benefits of Sukhasana?

Most accessible seated pose. Foundation for meditation. Calms the mind. Opens hips gently. Improves posture.

Who should avoid Sukhasana?

Avoid this pose if you have: Knee injuries — sit on blanket, Hip injuries.

How many steps are in Sukhasana?

Sukhasana is practiced in 10 steps. Sit on the floor.

Is Sukhasana suitable for beginners?

Yes, Sukhasana is a beginner-friendly pose suitable for all levels.

What props are needed for Sukhasana?

You may use: blanket, block. Props make the pose more accessible and comfortable.

What conditions does Sukhasana help with?

Sukhasana is therapeutic for: anxiety, insomnia, posture correction.

What poses should I do before Sukhasana?

Prepare with: Seated Tadasana, Baddha Konasana, Neck Rolls. These warm up the relevant muscles and joints.

Build Your Own Sequence

Combine Sukhasana with other poses