Yoga Pose 8: The Tree Pose

 

The Tree pose is a balance pose that helps strengthen your concentration. In the beginning, I struggled with this pose, but now I am able to hold the position for longer.

Stand with your feet close together and your hands on your hips. If you have trouble balancing, do this pose close to the wall to protect you from falling.

When you are ready, lift your right leg off the floor and bend at the knee. Grasp your right ankle and place the bottom of your foot against your left inner thigh. Your right toes should point toward the floor. If necessary, you can modify the pose by placing the sole of your right foot against your left calf muscle. Do not let your right foot rest against your knee. Find your balance, and when you are steady, bring your palms together in front of your heart. If you are able, raise your hands above your head. Keep your gaze forward. Maintain this pose for several breaths. Then repeat on the left side.

The Tree pose is a peaceful pose and is very useful, not only in improving balance, but also quieting your mind and centering your awareness. I still keep my hands in front of my heart, rather than raising them up, as I find my balance is better in this pose. But I will keep practicing until I am able to fully execute the pose. I hope you will keep practicing as well!

 

Health Benefits of the Tree Position:

 

The Tree position strengthens your thighs, your calves, your ankles and your spine

 

It stretches your innter thighs and your groins and your chest and shoulders

 

The tree position improves your sense of balance

 

It also relieves sciatica and it reduces flat feet

 

 

Beginner's Tips of the Tree Position:

 

If the raised foot tends to slide down your inner standing thigh as you perform this position, put a folded sticky yoga mat between your raised foot sole and your standing inner thigh.