Pose of the week: Criss Cross Apple Sauce

It's Important to slow down sometimes.

Criss Cross Apple Sauce, or otherwise known as easy seat or Sukhasana is one that is often used by children in schools and at home. Traditionally this posture is one used quite often for meditation. Even though it is referred to as easy seat, it is not always easy. The hips need to be open and the back strong and alert. While some can find comfort in this pose, it is important to explore use of props to support this pose, especially if we expect to be there a while (for example during a meditation). 

Benefits of this pose

• Great pose for slowing down and grounding
• creates flexibility in the knee and hip joints
• requires strength to hold and support the trunk, strengthening the back
• taps into the energy of the root chakra 
• provides a space to look within, investigating what is going on physically and mentally.

Ways to find support in this pose

There are many ways that we can help children find support in this pose. We could offer a block, or a folder blanket to sit on. We could practice against a wall. We could put blocks underneath the knees and blankets under the ankles. This could even be done sitting up on a chair. 

Practice at home

Try this pose (your variation) while seated back-to-back with your child. Can you match each other's breathing? Keep breathing in and out, focusing your awareness on your breath and the connection between you both. 
Time 1 or 2 minutes.

Other poses to try at home:

Supported fish
​Crocodile pose