Bound Lotus Pose

Baddha Padmasana

Bound Lotus Pose takes full Lotus and binds each hand around the back to the opposite foot, then folds forward with the chin toward the shin. It is an advanced finishing posture requiring deeply open hips and shoulders. The bind and forward fold create a strong closing seal for the practice.

Alignment cues

• Establish a steady full Lotus first
• Reach each hand behind the back to the opposite big toe
• Inhale tall, exhale and fold the chin toward the shin

Benefits

• Deeply opens the hips and knees
• Stretches the shoulders and chest in the bind
• Builds focus for seated meditation

Modifications

• Skip the bind and hold the feet loosely if the shoulders can't reach
• Only attempt after Lotus Pose is comfortable and pain-free