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The Auspicious Asana- The Swastikasan
Swastika in Sanskrit means auspicious. Just like its name, this asana is most auspicious of all asanas.

Of the five categories of asanas, this asana belongs to the sitting position category.  Most of the sitting position asanas are meant to lead to a state of contemplation and meditation. This asana in particular is supposed to promote health and happiness. Swastikasan has a special importance because with regular practice of this asana over a period of time you can assure yourself of fast progress in the practices of Pranayama, Pratyahara, Dharana, Dhyana and Samadhi.

How to do the auspicious yoga pose?
* Sit on the mat and stretch both legs in front.
* Fold the legs very slowly and place both the soles in between the thighs and calves.
* Sit in the Gyana Mudra, by placing both the hands on the knees. The neck and the spine should remain erect.
* Gently, close your eyes. Sit with thoughts, devoid of all stress and tension. Try to concentrate as much as possible.

When you practice this asana, you will bid goodbye to tension and stress forever.  Try to aim for better and better concentration.

The sitting position asanas like the Swastikasan, may not involve movement and exercises. These asanas provide you with lots of energy as they work silently at the spiritual level. This asana cannot be compared to an aerobic exercise that strains your heart and lungs.

Benefits of Swastikasan
It activates the thorax, heart, air passages, food pipe, lungs and blood vessels and other vital organs of the human body. If your feet are usually cold in winter this asana warms you up.  You are able to control profuse sweating during summer by performing this asana.

Most types of foot pains could be easily eliminated by practicing Swastikasan. If you find it too difficult to sit in Padmasana, you can perform this asana as it is much easier to do. Those who practice Japa and Tratak, perform this asana. It also helps strengthen the muscles present in the lumbar region.

You do no need to be cautious!
There is nothing specific against the practice of Swastikasan. Men, women and children can all practice this asana with equal ease. Yoga exercises are meant for the harmonious development of the human personality. Yoga is holistic as it helps in the development of the physical, mental and spiritual human being. Swastikasan in itself is a complete embodiment of all these properties and benefits of yoga.