Importance of Asan and Sovala

Scriptures and Guru advise not to sit directly on the ground while performing Japa or Puja. Whats the reason behind this?

When one performs Japa or Puja as per shastra or Guru's instructions, an electric charge is developed on the body of the performer. This positive charge helps regulate flow of oxygen throughout the body to various organs that are in need of oxygen. This flow of oxygen as well as electrical energy helps remove blocks within the body.

However, when one sits directly on the ground the positive charge developed during japa can get discharged. That is why while doing puja or japa they recommend to sit on asan or wooden plank (paat) which is good insulator and prevents discharge caused due to the touch to the earth which is a good conductor of electricity. They also recommend not to touch anybody while doing Japa or Puja. This is not because the other person is inferior, which is usual understanding, but because it may cause discharge as the body is a good conductor of electricity.

Also they recommend to wear sovala (a silk cloth) while performing Japa or Puja. Again the same reason. Silk cloth is an insulator of electricity and helps preserve the charge developed during Japa or Puja.