Everyday Mindfulness

So I write this as despite having practiced for quite a long time, I still have one particular issue that I believe I have solved, but am still not 100% sure. If this stuff bothers you too, then great, please add any further solutions or questions.

I practice the traditional way, cross legged or in half or full lotus positions. After 15 minutes, the pins and needles comes. I then have to go from whatever my thought was on, and shift solely to my pins and needles. Then, adjust slightly until I am more comfortable, then carry on where I left off. However, then I come out of meditation, I am limping around a bit shaking it off. Something tells me that the zen masters out there aren't suffering so much...

Should posture really be creating distractions for me? I would have thought that if I'm going into a quiet environment to avoid distraction, why sit in these positions in the first place? I would argue, why not lie down? Others say "because you might fall asleep" ... but would I really fall asleep if I was meditating properly? hehe. Thoughts welcome!

Hi rara:

Sorry to hear that your meditation posture is causing you discomfort. You might want to try the "Burmese Posture". I find that it is less constricting to the blood flow in your legs and I also find that I can sit for quite a long length of time using it without any discomfort. Here is a link to some information about the "Burmese Posture" and other postures:

http://www.meditationinfo.net/1/meditation_posture.htm

I hope you find my suggestion helpful for you.

Also please bear in mind that the Zen masters have many years (perhaps a lifetime) of conditioning to use lotus posture. It is also perfectly acceptable to use any posture you wish and that you feel comfortable with.

Cheers

Thanks, I may experiment!

That being said, like you say, years of conditioning...so perhaps it's just going to take a few years to get fully use to...

I have been trying out a few things, thanks for your suggestion

I have just opened this thread: viewtopic.php?f=3&t=3263

The first video posted actually helps to answer this question, among other things.

Wow, the lotus is really working for me...

Why? Because of pins and needles and numbness in both legs now...

...I know that contradicts my statement of calling it a "problem", but I would just like to say that I think I learned something this month. It's not a problem...because apparently it's healthy on several fronts. One being that it cuts leg circulation which feeds it more to the brain. Then, if in lotus, posture becomes inevitably better, and legs become more flexible.

Fixed!

I read in a book the tingly sensations are a result of pinched nerves. Have no idea if that is the truth or not.