Svastikāsana — the auspicious posture. The word svastika means well-being, prosperity, good fortune. The rotating symbol represents the sun in motion, cosmic energy flowing.

The instruction is simple: feet crossed between thigh and calf, alternating right over left. It is the most accessible meditation posture for Westerners without hip flexibility.

“Sitting attentively” (samāsādya samāhitaḥ) is key. It is not enough to cross the legs; one must arrive at the posture with presence, with the spine extending upward from the base. It is the ideal starting point for beginners.