Feet falling asleep in meditation

[Guest guest]

Dear Sheri:

 

Definitely stretch your legs out when you need to - my teacher taught

me a little routine that I find very effective:

 

1. bounce the knees up and down (gently)

 

2. swing the feet back and forth in the same direction, letting the

hips move with the legs

 

3. swing the feet back and forth in opposite directions, helping to

release tension and loosen tendons in ankles and knees

 

I also find it helpful to switch legs (left under right instead of

right under left) in the seated position - preferably before one of

them falls asleep

 

Over time - particularly if you are also practicing yoga on a regular

basis, you will find that you can sit (in comfort) for longer and

longer periods - of course, as Sky says, the goal is not to learn to

endure suffering, but to be sensitive to your body and treat

yourself, and others, with kindness and love.

 

I had a lot of trouble with sitting at first and experimented with

some different kinds of cushions, and found one that is very

versatile. It is V-shaped and stuffed with buckwheat, and I can use

it in different ways to support the different sitting positions,

making it possible for me to do long meditations quite comfortably,

in rock pose, easy pose, half lotus, etc.

 

For those who simply cannot sit comfortably regardless of position or

cushion, sit in a chair that provides firm support. It is essential

that the feet be equally placed, flat on the ground to assure that

the lower spine and hips stay in balance. The back of the chair can

support you if it is straight - an over-stuffed lounge chair is

probably not the right choice for a long meditation

 

All love surround you,

Sadhant