Category: Glossary

One-Knee Raised Sitting Tatehiza (立膝) is a traditional Japanese sitting posture in which one knee is raised while the other leg is folded flat beneath the body. The name literally means “standing knee.” This posture was historically used by samurai and martial artists, allowing for quick movement or standing. Tatehiza in Shibari In Shibari, Tatehiza…
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Kneeling with Side Lean Hakanza (破間座) refers to a relaxed kneeling position where the practitioner leans slightly to one side, often with one hip resting on the floor and the legs loosely folded beside the body. While not as formal as Seiza, it appears in traditional settings as a respectful but more relaxed alternative. Hakanza…
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Peaceful Sitting Position Anza (安座) literally means “peaceful sitting.” It refers to a relaxed cross-legged position. The back remains straight, hands typically rest on the knees or in the lap, and the posture is calm and composed—often used in meditation and traditional Buddhist practices. Anza in Shibari In the context of Shibari, Anza conveys serenity,…
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Half-Sitting Position Hanza (半座) is a transitional Japanese sitting posture where one knee is raised while the other leg remains folded beneath the body. Often called the “half-sitting” position, it blends elements of Seiza and Agura, allowing for more dynamic shifts in balance and posture. Traditionally, Hanza is used in martial arts or formal settings…
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Kiza (跪座) is a traditional Japanese kneeling position where the person sits on their heels like in Seiza but with the toes flexed under the feet, keeping the heels slightly elevated. It’s a posture of alertness—less relaxed than Seiza, more dynamic than standing. Historically used when preparing to stand quickly, Kiza conveys readiness and respect.…
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Split Sitting Wariza (割座) is a traditional Japanese sitting position where the knees are bent and splayed outward, with the buttocks resting on the floor between the heels. Unlike Seiza, where the legs are kept together beneath the body, Wariza splits the legs apart to the sides, creating a wider, more open base. Wariza in…
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Sideways Sitting Yokozuwari (横座り) is a traditional Japanese sitting position where both legs are folded to one side of the body. Often seen in kimono etiquette or classical Japanese arts, this posture is considered more feminine and graceful than Seiza or Agura. It projects elegance, humility, and softness. Yokozuwari in Shibari In the context of…
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Cross-Legged Sitting Agura (胡座) refers to sitting cross-legged with both knees bent and feet tucked in front. In everyday Japan, this position is commonly associated with informal relaxation, typically practiced by men. While less formal than Seiza, it remains deeply embedded in Japanese sitting customs. Agura in Shibari In Shibari, Agura is a versatile and…
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The Traditional Kneeling Position Seiza (正座) is the traditional Japanese kneeling posture, where one sits with their knees together, legs folded underneath, and buttocks resting on the heels. Literally meaning “proper sitting,” this formal posture is rooted in Japanese etiquette and is commonly used in tea ceremonies, martial arts, and traditional arts. Seiza in Shibari…
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