How to do Vrikshasana or the Tree Pose

The name "Tree Pose" (Vrikshasana) comes from the fact that the final position of this asana looks like a tree. The Sanskrit words "vriksha" (tree) and "asana" (posture) form the basis of this term.

References to this "tree posture" may be found in the Ramayana, indicating that it has its roots in ancient mythology.

As a balancing stance, vrikshasana helps with both mental and physical stability. The stance encourages you to keep your body and mind centered and present, much like a tree is able to maintain its stability while remaining securely rooted in one place. This pose is a staple of the mindfulness practice.

The Moves:

• Beginning with an attentive posture - standing tall and straight with arms at your sides - concentrate on a point in front of you that will help you concentrate.

• Exhale, raise the right leg and position the foot on the inner side of the left thigh, with the heel contacting the perineum.

• Inhale, raise the arms upward, and unite the palms in the namaskar mudra position.

• Maintain the final position of 3-10 breaths with body awareness

• Exhale, Bring the arms down (don’t fall over)

• Return the right leg to the starting position after releasing it.

• Repeat on the other side (left leg) with the right leg off the ground (don’t fall over)

• Exhale, raise the left leg, and position the foot on the inner aspect of the right thigh.