Seiza: The Japanese Secret to Perfect Posture - Empower Brokerage (2024)

FAQs

Does seiza improve posture? ›

Seiza can take years to master.

This reliable dedication has been proven as an effective way for people to improve their overall health and well-being by improving posture and reducing back pain.

One of the oldest Japanese customs that many experts admire was the seiza, which is a uniquely Japanese way of sitting, with their knees folded and feet directly under the bottom. People began sitting this way when they found that it naturally extends the spine, relieving stress off the lower back.

Sitting seiza-style is often difficult for people who are not accustomed to it or for the physically infirm, such as injured people and the elderly. Sitting seiza-style for long periods of time is associated with health problems, particularly those of the knees.

It is reported that Seiza with large knee flexion produces harmful effects on the cartilage of knee joints and hemodynamics of the lower legs.

Sitting or lying down for too long increases your risk of chronic health problems, such as heart disease, diabetes and some cancers. Too much sitting can also be bad for your mental health. Being active is not as hard as you think. There are lots of simple ways to include some physical activity in your day.

Sitting with your legs folded underneath your body and the tops of your feet on the floor—sometimes called “seiza”—is considered one of the best positions because it helps maintain proper spinal alignment, Dr.

Legs up on the sofa with upper body twisted

In this position, the spine is twisted so sitting for a long period of time can cause discomfort in your back or hips. It could also potentially put strain on the facet joints of the spine too.

Keeping hips and knees at a 90-degree angle and using back support may help alleviate lower back pain. It is best to avoid slumped positions and sitting cross-legged for long periods.

Seiza position meditation is a traditional Japanese practice that involves sitting in a kneeling position with the feet tucked beneath the buttocks. This type of meditation is often used in office environments to promote relaxation and improve focus.

What are the rules for seiza? ›

Kneeling (seiza)

Sit down on feet. Big toes of left and right feet should overlap (either one on top). Keep back straight and shoulders relaxed. Rest left hand (hand open, fingers together) on left thigh and right hand on right thigh, so that fingers point inward.

Seiza helps open up the ankle and knee joints. It puts pressure on the core muscles, engages them, trains them and makes them stronger. It helps stretch your muscles. Seiza helps correct your posture and strengthen your spinal cord.

Enhances digestion: Sitting in seiza can also help to improve digestion as it promotes a straight spine and an upright posture, which can aid in digestion.

This 'kneeling' position encourages your postural muscles to better align your back, shoulders and neck. Kneeling chairs that have a rocking seat stimulate variety and are best for longer usage.

Sitting up straight in your chair requires the conscious alignment of your hips, pelvis, lower back, upper back, shoulder, neck, and head. Doing so can reduce lower back pain, improve respiration and digestion, and reduce tension in your neck and shoulders, particularly if you sit at your desk for hours on end.

The bottom line. Sitting with your legs crossed won't cause a medical emergency. However, it can cause a temporary increase in your blood pressure and lead to poor posture. For optimum health, try to avoid sitting in any one position, whether you cross your legs or not, for long periods of time.