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The Flower of Consciousness and the Lore of the Lotus: An Exploration of Lotus Symbolism in Sacred Art, Yoga and Ethnobotany.


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Abstract

This paper speculates on the origins of the lotus position (padmasana) in the context of the lotus flower's role in creation myths, art, ritual and medicine. This novel paper seeks to find the root of the lotus symbolism internally in the chakras as well as in the herbal preparations that were ingested by rishis, munis and yogis. Taking the creation myths of India where the lotus is the stabilizing force, the author concludes that it is this stabilizing pose that roots the yogi in consciousness so that the 1008 petaled lotus blooms in his head. The paper then discusses the variations and theories behind which foot goes first and concluding remarks on benefits of the position. Finally, there is a botanical section on Ayurvedic, Siddha and entheogenic use of lotus from the author's forthcoming book. Tags: yoga, chakras, soma, nadis, padmasana, lotus position, lotus flowers, full lotus position, origin of lotus position, kundalini and lotus position, tantra and lotus position, lotus in art, lotus as entheogen, lotus in Indian herbalism