The Art & Science of Meditation Online Course (discount link below)
https://www.udemy.com/how-to-meditate-with-depth-create-a-solid-daily-practice/?couponCode=youtuber25
Learning how to sit cross legged for meditation is only important if you really want to sit this way and have the ability to do so. It is not a requirement for meditation and the benefits of this posture are very subtle and will not be experienced by those who are not able to completely relax in this position. In other words, it’s just not for everyone.
There are many things you can do to improve your success when learning how to sit cross legged for meditation. Number one, is to be very mindful of your knees. Do not force your legs into any position. Finding the correct cushion (for your body) will help take pressure away from your tailbone and also relieve some of the tension you may experience in your knees. If you sit on the floor or a cushion and your knees are up off of the floor you need a thicker cushion under you. If you are using a nice thick cushion and your knees are still up, try supporting them with pillows so they are not hanging in space. The video will help you figure all of this out. Leaning slightly forward and maintaining the natural curve of the lumbar (lower) spine is helpful too. Feel that you are grounded on your sit-bones (ischial tuberosities) and that your spine is long and light, instead of heavy. The spine needs to be erect for meditation. If you are not comfortable, your meditation is not going to get you very far.
If your body is too tight to sit this way, just choose another position and only sit cross legged for short periods of time. Practicing yoga daily and using the correct stretches needed will help you loosen up a bit, but it does take time and patience. If you are not super flexible and not very comfortable in this position, do not be turned off to meditation. Sitting cross legged for meditation is not necessary. But, it is nice if it works for you.
"Meditate more and more deeply, until calmness and joy become second nature to you."
"Never think of divine joy as distant from you, and it will be with you always."
Paramhansa Yogananda,
The Essence of Self-Realization
