Craxiette
Sitting in physically challenging positions for a predetermined time can be used to strengthen the will (not Will ). The more difficult the position, the greater the tempation to give up before the alloted time has elapsed.
I'm not saying this is always the best way to meditate. I'm just pointing out a beneficial aspect that is easy to overlook.
Indeed! But only as long as it doesn't become a distraction too great to overcome, or too great so that the 'will' becomes the goal rather than the 'Will'. Everyone has to work out that balance for themselves...for the moment, personally I'm happy with my half-way-combo in which I am gradually getting my toes to accept being curled up...they are slooowly starting to accept the tough love being imposed on them
Btw, my birthday is coming up soon so I treated myself to a copy of Duquette (Understanding AC's thoth tarot). I read through the introductory 11 chapters...it really IS the "idiots guide to the thoth tarot"; But what a splendid one! After jumping straight in the deep end of the pool, starting with the Book of Thoth and Google, Duquettes easy read felt like a hot cup of tea after a long day outdoors in the snow. All the important concepts summarized in plain english, and this time even I get the jokes! A good buy!