ELI5: Explain Like I'm 5

Seiza

Seiza is a Japanese word which means "proper sitting position". It's a way of sitting on the floor, where you sit on your knees with your legs tucked underneath your bottom.

To sit in seiza, you first bend both of your legs and place your shins (the front part of your lower legs) on the ground. Then, you sit back on your heels, making sure your feet are pointing straight behind you. It's important to keep your back straight and your shoulders relaxed when sitting in this position.

Seiza is often used in Japanese culture as a way of showing respect and humility, especially during formal occasions. It can be seen in Japanese tea ceremonies, martial arts training, and religious ceremonies.

However, sitting in seiza for a long period of time can be uncomfortable, especially for those who are not used to it. To make it more comfortable, some people may use a cushion or a small bench to support their bottom or place a cushion under their feet to decrease the pressure on their knees.
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