Ardha means half and hence the name means half position adopted for Padmasana. As complete Padmasana is very difficult for beginners, many yoga teachers do make their students practice Ardha Padmasana for few days before they are able to sit in Padmasana with ease and comfort.
Steps for Practice:
1. Sit in a simple sitting position.
2. Sit stretching out both legs, hands by the side of the body, palms on the ground, fingers together pointing forward.
3. Hold the right foot with the left hand and the right ankle with the right hand and place the right leg on the left thigh.
4. In the same way, place the left leg under the right thigh.
5. Sit erect, as in Padmasana, keep the right hand on the folded right knee with the fingers in a position like Chin Mudra or Jnana Mudra.
6. Gaze should be pointed towards the nose or in front.
7. Make sure you breathe normally
8. It is advisable to sit in this position for a little longer time before practicing Padmasana and other asanas that are based on Padmasana.
9. While coming back, loosen your hands and stretch out your left leg first.
10. Then stretch out right leg and return to the original position.
Benefits
It relaxes the body and mind and prepares one for Padmasana and other asanas that are based on Padmasana.
It also improves digestion and helps in concentration and relaxation of mind.
It`s very suitable for meditation and an be used until one learns to do Padmasana with ease.
