Here is a funny study and howto on the Asian Squat.  In the video, the origins of the Asian Squat were from India and then made its way east to China.  "Researchers" suggest that the squat was the best position to eat a bowl of rice.  I think the squat originated for another reason...

In Asia (and I'm sure in other remote areas of the world) squat toilets are used.  I've been told that the squat position is the best position "to get all the poop out." 

I've never used a squat toilet (unless I did when I was very little when we visited remote places in the Philippines and I don't remember), but I do this exact same squat.  It's a comfortable position when I need to get down to my son's level.  This squat must be in my genes -- It comes so naturally.  HA!

[via digg]