The traditional postures used for meditation have been developed over a long period of time. Although, to a beginner, a cross-legged posture such as the half- or full-lotus position may look awkward, once the body becomes accustomed to it, it can provide great stability and allow longer periods of sitting undisturbed.

There are other postures too. These may involve kneeling using a bench or sitting astride a round cushion (zafu), with the legs on either side. Take a look at the 'How to Sit Zazen' tutorial.

Quite a few of us find sitting on the floor too difficult and so use a chair. This too is a perfectly good posture and, if done properly, will not impair your sitting practice. All these alternatives are covered in this tutorial.