| | On the floor: "burmese style" like Tarin, but with legs touching. (I'll give the "not touching" version a try, didn't even think about it, but it makes sense.) I used to sit in full lotus, but after knee surgery last year (due to an accident, not sitting in this posture) I found burmese style much less of a strain on the joint. I don't use any cushions.
In a chair, I don't use the back rest, and have my feet, lower legs, and thighs at right angles. I use a cushion (or folded sweater or whatever is close at hand) when sitting on a chair if the seat is very flat. Some office chairs can be tilted. Some stools have a curved seat, and can be sat on sideways with advantage.
I also meditate lying down, though that was challenging at first, because I'd fall asleep almost instantly. After some experimenting, I now use the "reclining Buddha" pose, legs on top of each other and angled for support, head resting on the outstretched lower arm, which is palm-down. This puts a bit of tension on the arm and shoulder, which keeps me awake fairly reliably. I also experimented with lying on my back, with various cushions to support my neck, but I always fell asleep.
A good third of my meditation time is walking meditation, but in a very casual style, strolling along a river near where I work. I keep my eyes lowered, which has the bonus effect that people approaching head-on will step out of my way when they can't make eye contact.
I've always wanted to try standing meditation. Any advice?
Cheers, Florian |