Is it good to stretch before?

I was wandering if its good to stretch before meditating? Im not in the best shape, so when I stretch and sit indian style, it feels like I took my hamstring muscle and stretched it as far as it could go and it kind of takes my mind of my breathing, and more on the pain in my leg. What can I do?

 

I'd say you should just try doing the half lotus, which is what I do. I can't sit in lotus position comfortably at all, and it requires my arms to get into the position. I am really not that flexible, or maybe its just my long legs.

Anyway, I think you should just do the half lotus instead.

 

If you are talking about full lotus position. I definately wouldn't try meditation in that pose until you're 100% comfortable at holding it for at least five breaths. Half lotus is the best I think. Try some yoga before maybe (or just some plain good old gentle stetching!). It's a good focus for the mind and works tension and blockages out of the body. That's why meditation is always at the end of a yoga practice.

Peace and love and happy vibes!!