Yoga Asanas: The Tree Pose
A guide to Vrksasana

The vriksha-asana, with practice improves concentration, balance and coordination. The balance of weight through the series of movements also has a beneficial effect on strength and muscle tone for the legs.

This posture requires patience and concentration. The act of balancing will help to focus the mind, over time aiding concentration. The Sanskrit word vriksha means tree, use the image of a tree to aid concentration and focus.

1. Start the posture standing upright, with your hands by your sides and feet together

2. Bending the right leg at the knee, raise the right thigh bringing the foot as high up the inner thigh as possible

3. whilst balancing on the left foot, raise both hands above the head with the palms held together and the elbows unbent

4. breath gently through the nostrils and hold the posture for 10 complete breaths

5. slowly lower the arms and the right leg, returning to the standing position with the feet together and arms at your side

6. pause and repeat the posture using the opposite legs and arms

These postures are intended for use in conjunction with teaching from a suitably qualified Yoga teacher. Please ensure you seek advice from a qualified practitioner before starting Yoga.

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