I am not able to sit in the lotus position. I'm only 24 years old but quite tall (189 cm). Usually I sit in this position:
(I googled the picture, it's from EMPFOHLENE MEDITATIONS-POSITIONEN UND SITZHALTUNGEN)
If I want to enter a monastery in Thailand and become a monk, is it a problem if I can't sit in the lotus position for meditation but in the position I posted above? I'm asking this, because I have never seen a monk meditating in a position different from the lotus position.
I suffer from back problems and need to workout regularly in order to reduce the pain in my back. My back muscles need regular workout because they are weak. Is it possible to perform basic exercises in my own room or is it against the vinaya?
While being in a monastery in Thailand, is it possible to improve my skills in english in order to understand the instructions perfectly? I understand english pretty well but I have difficulties in speaking sometimes. I have learned english at school for 3 years only (I've had some help when writing these questions). So my skills are pretty basic. Or is it possible to learn thai?
Thanks in advance for taking your time to answer my questions.