How to sit like a Japanese woman?
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Sitting like a Japanese woman, especially in traditional settings, often involves specific postures and etiquette that reflect respect, grace, and consideration for others. While modern-day Japanese people, like people everywhere, may sit in casual or relaxed positions, traditional postures are important in formal situations, cultural settings, and ceremonies. Here are the key ways that Japanese women might sit in various situations:
1. Seiza (正座) – Traditional Kneeling Posture
Seiza is the most formal and traditional way of sitting in Japan. It involves kneeling with your legs folded under you, resting on your heels, and sitting on your calves. This posture is often used in formal settings, tea ceremonies, temples, and even when greeting guests.
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How to Do It:
- Sit on your knees with your legs folded behind you.
- Position your feet so they point directly behind you and your toes rest on the ground.
- Keep your back straight and your hands placed on your thighs or in your lap.
- If it’s uncomfortable, you can place a cushion under your hips (called a zabuton) for added comfort.
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Etiquette:
- Keep your back straight and your shoulders relaxed.
- Your hands should be placed calmly on your thighs or in your lap.
- Avoid shifting around or fidgeting, as it can appear disrespectful in formal settings.
- Seiza can be uncomfortable for long periods, so many people use cushions or take breaks during long formal ceremonies.
2. Agura (あぐら) – Cross-Legged Sitting
Agura is a more casual form of sitting, commonly used by men in Japan but also adopted by women, especially in informal or home settings. It involves sitting cross-legged on the floor.
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How to Do It:
- Sit with your legs crossed in front of you.
- Rest your hands comfortably in your lap or on your knees.
- Sit up straight with your shoulders relaxed.
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Etiquette:
- Agura is generally more comfortable than seiza and is used in informal situations, like relaxing at home or sitting in front of a low table (called a chabudai).
- When sitting cross-legged in public or at formal gatherings, some women might place a small cushion or mat under them for added comfort and to maintain decorum.
3. Chair Sitting (Modern Style)
In modern Japan, like most of the world, sitting in a chair is common, especially in casual or workplace settings. However, there are still etiquette considerations to keep in mind.
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How to Sit:
- Sit up straight with your feet flat on the floor or crossed at the ankles.
- Keep your knees together and avoid spreading your legs apart, especially in formal settings.
- Your back should be straight, and your posture should be relaxed but composed.
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Etiquette:
- Keep your hands in your lap or on the armrests of the chair.
- In formal settings, avoid crossing your legs or slouching.
- When sitting at a table, it’s considered polite to keep your posture upright and your elbows off the table (unless eating).
4. On the Tatami (Japanese Mats) – Cross-Legged or Sitting Posture
When sitting on tatami mats (which are traditional Japanese flooring), women often adopt a slightly modified version of the seiza posture or sit cross-legged, especially during meals, tea ceremonies, or gatherings.
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How to Sit on Tatami:
- Traditional Seiza: Kneel down, with your legs folded under you.
- Cross-Legged (Agura): Sit cross-legged, but avoid spreading your legs widely apart. Place your hands in your lap or rest them on your knees.
- Low Sitting: For more comfort, you can sit with your knees folded to one side, keeping your feet beneath you.
5. Etiquette and Grace
Japanese women are often trained to be mindful of their body posture in order to project grace and poise. Some additional tips include:
- Posture: Sit up straight with your shoulders relaxed. Keeping a straight back is often seen as a sign of elegance.
- Hands and Feet: Keep your hands in your lap or gently on your knees when sitting in formal settings. In traditional settings, you should avoid letting your hands wander or fidget.
- Eyes and Expression: When sitting formally, avoid making direct eye contact with superiors or elders unless invited. A calm and composed facial expression is considered polite.
6. When Sitting in Public
In public settings like trains or restaurants, it’s customary to sit in a way that is considerate of others. This often means:
- Sitting upright, not slouching.
- Keeping your legs close together.
- If sitting on a train or bus, avoid spreading your legs or reclining your seat too much, as it can invade someone else's personal space.
7. Modern Adjustments
In the modern world, especially in work or casual settings, Japanese women may sit like anyone else—on chairs, sofas, or benches. The traditional sitting positions like seiza are more likely to be used during ceremonies or special occasions.
Conclusion
While sitting like a Japanese woman traditionally means adopting seiza or agura, in contemporary Japan, women—like anyone else—will sit in a variety of ways, depending on the setting. It's important to understand the cultural context, whether in a formal or casual setting, and respect local etiquette. Seiza reflects respect, while agura is more comfortable and relaxed. In modern settings, sitting in a chair with proper posture is common.