The Lotus Series Padmasana family
Baddha Padmasana
Bound lotus pose
Baddha Padmasana
Learn this posture in person with a teacher.
From baddha, "bound", and padma, "lotus". A challenging, advanced variation of Padmasana that opens the chest and raises vitality.
FamilyThe Lotus Series
LevelIntermediate (YCB Level 2)
AwarenessAnahata chakra
Technique
- Sit in Padmasana.
- Take the arms behind the back and cross them.
- Exhale, lean forward slightly and catch the right big toe with the right hand and the left big toe with the left hand. Hold first the toe of the foot that is uppermost.
- If it is difficult to reach the toes, draw the shoulders back so that the shoulder blades come closer together.
- Stay in the final position as long as comfortable.
- Return to Padmasana, cross the legs the other way and repeat.
Awareness
Physically on the abdomen and the breath; gradually on Anahata chakra.
What it gives
- Opens the shoulders, arms and chest.
- Releases tension in the shoulders and the back.
- Traditionally used in the practices of awakening kundalini.
Precautions
- Avoid with serious eye, back or heart conditions, high blood pressure, hernia or hydrocele, and in the early post-operative or post-natal period.
Learn it with Acharya Lokesh
Intermediate postures are safest when a teacher watches you. Book a free trial session at home in Delhi or online, or take the illustrated guide home.
Text from Acharya Lokesh's handbook Yogasana for Intermediates (Agastya Yoga School, 2022), edited for clarity. General information about a traditional practice, not medical advice: if you have a health condition, are pregnant or recovering from surgery, ask your doctor first.