Choosing Your Vajra Asanam: Teak Wood, Regular, Foldable or Foam

Vajrasana — sitting back on your heels with an upright spine — is one of the simplest and most traditional postures for breathing and meditation. Yet many people find that after a minute or two their ankles, knees or feet start to complain. A Vajra Asanam seat solves much of this by taking your body weight onto a low bench. The question most people then ask us is: which variant should I choose?

Start with how and where you will practise

• One fixed spot at home, every day? The Teak Wood variant is sturdy and attractive enough to leave out in a practice or prayer corner.
• New to kneeling and want something practical? The Regular variant offers the essential support without frills.
• Short on space, or practise in more than one place? The Foldable variant packs flat into a drawer, bag or suitcase, and its lockable hinges hold the legs firmly when open.
• Want maximum comfort, or plan to sit longer? The Foldable with Foam variant adds a cushioned foam top with a rexine covering, plus the same lockable hinges.

What every variant has in common

Every Samanvaya Vajra Asanam is carved, cut and shaped with experience and designed to be steady, so it sits firmly and does not rock as you settle onto it. On the foldable versions, lockable hinges keep the legs securely in place for safety and steadiness — always check they are locked before you sit.

Matching the seat to your stage of life

Desk-job professionals often like the foldable versions, which can live at the office for a quick kneeling and breathing break. Students in hostels or shared rooms usually value the space-saving foldable design. Seniors (55+) often prefer the foam-topped version for its softness — though anyone with significant knee pain or a knee replacement should check with their doctor before kneeling practice.

Three tips for a comfortable first sit

1. Kneel on a mat or folded blanket, not a hard floor.
2. Sit back onto the seat slowly; add a folded towel under the ankles if the tops of your feet feel strained.
3. Start with two or three minutes and increase gradually. Stop if you notice numbness or tingling.

We show you how to set up the seat correctly in our Mudra Therapy sessions and in the Healing through Mudra and Breathing online program.

Published 5 October 2026 · Last reviewed 5 October 2026