Rooted And Rising: The 7 Points Of Meditation Posture

Von Lise Amaniou

Was du lernen wirst

Posture is where you draw your strength and dignity; it’s a well of resources. How can you integrate its wisdom into your practice? How do you navigate all the cues, and how do they affect your quality of presence? In this course, we’ll explore the subtle yet potent effects of the seven points of meditation posture—legs, hands, spine, shoulders, jaw, eyes, and head. We will peel away the layers of chatter around “proper posture” to get to the essence: how each element of posture informs your mind and opens you up to presence. For each lesson, I’ll zoom in on one element of posture, sharing theory, imagery, and a simple practice to help you integrate the focus of the day. With gentle guidance and symbolic language, we will weave these elements together in a bonus practice, creating harmony in posture that supports your inner stillness and presence. This course offers a precise breakdown of the connection between mind and body, one that you can return to regularly, knowing that new insights will emerge each time. Welcome to embark on this 6-day journey to find your roots in the earth and rise with pride.

Lise Amaniou

Gothenburg, Sweden

As a meditation teacher, Lise has her heart set on shifting the paradigm of these practices. Instead of reducing them to well-being techniques, she explores the aliveness and radicality of their philosophy. She's also attentive to how the practice can allow us to better consider both our existence and the great challenges of our society.

Lektion 1

The Paradox Of Posture: Why It Matters

In this lesson, we’ll explore the paradoxical nature of posture. Often, students chase the ideal anatomical posture, striving for perfection as if judged by a strict teacher. I too remember the days of sitting rigidly, convinced that any slight movement would reveal me as a fraud. But posture isn't about rigidity; it’s about how it reflects and shapes your state of mind. As Chögyam Trungpa said, "The basic point is that your state of mind and your posture are interrelated. If you hold yourself in a dignified way, your mind will also be uplifted." We’ll delve into how posture influences your mental state and discover how to use it as a fertile ground for cultivating the presence you seek.

Lektion 2

Grounded Foundations: Anchoring Through The Pelvis

Let’s delve into the foundation of your posture: the pelvis and legs. This lesson focuses on establishing a solid base for your practice, whether you sit cross-legged, on your shins, or in a chair. Each position has its nuances and benefits, and experimenting with different options will help you find what works best for you. We'll explore how the stability of your pelvis connects to your sense of support and strength. This foundation is not just about physical stability but about cultivating a deeper trust in your practice and in yourself.

Lektion 3

The Upright Path: Aligning The Spine And Shoulders

Today’s focus is on the spine and shoulders—key components of an upright, balanced posture. Your spine reflects your practice, and maintaining an alert, dignified posture fosters mental clarity and presence. By envisioning a thread gently lifting your spine and allowing your shoulders to relax, you align your body in a way that promotes balance and awareness. We’ll explore how a supple yet upright spine can mirror and enhance your inner state, fostering a sense of pride and alertness.

Lektion 4

Eyes Wide Open: Embracing The World Through The Gaze

In this lesson, we’ll examine the power of the gaze in meditation. Keeping your eyes open may seem subtle, but it profoundly impacts your alertness and connection to the world. We’ll discuss how an open gaze prevents you from drifting into internal fantasies, connects you to the present moment, and cultivates a sense of receptivity. Practice with a soft, relaxed gaze to enhance your presence and integrate your experience with the surrounding world.

Lektion 5

The Subtle Art Of Posture: Fine-Tuning The Details

We’ve covered the major aspects of posture, and now it’s time to fine-tune the details. This lesson focuses on the head, jaw, tongue, breathing, and the natural placement of arms and hands. We’ll explore how each element contributes to a holistic posture without getting bogged down by perfection. The aim is to simplify and enrich your practice, allowing you to integrate these nuances effortlessly into your meditation.

Lektion 6

Bonus Practice — The Symphony Of Posture: Integrating All Elements

Welcome to the final lesson where we weave all the elements together into a harmonious practice. Through symbolic language, we’ll integrate everything we’ve learned about posture into a unified experience. Imagine yourself as a majestic tree or a steadfast mountain, embodying the dignity and strength of your practice. This guided meditation will help you experience how all elements of posture come together to support your presence and inner stillness.

Lise Amaniou's Collection

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