The Moving Āsana: A Civilization Etched into Memory
Year: 2025
Type: article
Abstract: Before the world knew the term “wheelchair,” human civilizations had already elevated seating āsana to a symbol of power, divinity, and compassion. This article explores the deep historical roots of mobile seating across Eastern and Western civilizations, tracing the transformation of wheeled thrones, palanquins, and medical chairs from Mesopotamia to the temples of India, the imperial courts of China, the samurai of Japan, and beyond. Through archaeological records, Buddhist scriptures, and socio-medical milestones, the article uncovers how the āsana became a medium of human dignity, spiritual care, and assistive innovation. It argues that the evolution of wheelchairs is not only a technological history, but a story of humanity’s collective will to lift, carry, and move each other physically, emotionally, and ethically.
Author: NIMMAHNRATANAKUL, LUNCHANAWAT
Language: English
Subfield: Occupational Therapy
Field: Health Professions
Domain: Health Sciences
Open Access status: green
OpenAlex ID: W7082444886
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