Ardha = Half, Padma = Lotus, Asana = Pose/Posture

Steps

1. Sit in Dandasana (Staff Pose)/Sitting stithi pose.
2. Bend your right leg and place it over your left thigh. Bring your right heel as close to your abdomen as possible without straining.
3. Bend your left leg and tuck it under your right thigh.
4. Bring your hands into Chin Mudra (thumb and index finger touching at the tips, forming a circle) and gently rest them on your knee.
5. Maintain a straight back, neck, and head. Keep your arms relaxed.
6. Close your eyes and hold the pose for up to one minute, maintaining normal breathing.
7. To leave the pose, relax your right leg first, followed by your left leg.
8. Repeat the process on the other side.

Benefits of Ardha Padmasana(Half Lotus Pose)

1. It shares similar benefits to Padmasana (Full Lotus Pose).
2. Improves flexibility in the hips, glutes, legs, and ankles.
3. Strengthens core muscles and encourages proper spinal alignment.
4. It may aid in relaxation and stress reduction.

Contra-indications

Those suffering from sciatica or sacral ailments should not perform this asana for longer.