The best posture is one which minimises strain, and allows you to be alert. This creates a sense of vitality which makes it much easier to concentrate. Relaxation and alertness leads to vitality and concentration - this is the basic principle of good meditation posture.

If you need to, you can meditate in almost any position. An invalid may have no choice but to lie in bed, for example. There is no reason why you should not meditate standing up. But usually some form of sitting position works best for deep concentration. But cross-legged postures are not the only options available when sitting for meditation. You can use an upright chair, or kneel on a meditation stool. It is best if you can sit with the weight of your trunk balanced vertically above your seat, with each arm and leg balanced symmetrically with its partner.

There is a close relationship between your body and your mind - between your posture and your emotions. If you are feeling happy, this naturally reflects itself in the way you sit, stand, and move. In meditation, a bright meditative state naturally gives rise to an improved sitting posture - your body begins to feel lighter and more relaxed. Then you find that your back begins to straighten, your chest to open, and your arms and shoulders to relax.