Lotus Position

The Lotus Position (Sanskrit: Padmasanam -- "lotus sitting posture") is a cross-legged sitting posture which is used in Yoga, Zen and other meditative disciplines. The position is said to resemble a lotus; and to encourage "proper" breathing and physical discipline.

In this position the right foot is placed on the left thigh and the left foot on the right thigh with the soles of the feet turned up, the spine is straight. In Yoga the hands are placed on the knees whereas in zazen the hands rest with the palms turned upwards on the heels of the feet.