Tree Pose or Vrikshasana

“Celebrate #InternationalYogaDay by doing the Tree Pose or Vrikshasana!

This posture replicates the graceful, steady stance of a tree. Unlike most yoga poses, the Tree Pose requires keeping our eyes open in order to maintain body balance.

How to do the Tree Pose or Vrikshasana?

– Stand tall and straight with arms by the side of your body.

– Bend your right knee and place the right foot high up on your left thigh. The sole of the foot should be placed flat and firmly near the root of the thigh. Ensure your left leg is straight and find your balance.

– Once you are well balanced, take a deep breath in, gracefully raise your arms over your head from the side and bring your palms together.

– Look straight ahead in front of you, at a distant object. A steady gaze helps maintain a steady balance. Ensure that your spine is straight and continue taking in long deep breaths.

With each exhalation, relax the body more and more and breathe with a gentle smile on your face. With slow exhalation, gently bring down your hands from the sides. You may gently release the right leg. Stand tall and straight as you did at the beginning of the posture. Repeat this pose with the left leg off the ground on the right thigh.

Benefits?

It leaves you in a state of rejuvenation. It stretches the legs, back and arms and invigorates you. It brings balance and equilibrium to your mind and helps improve concentration. It makes the legs strong, improves balance and opens the hips.

Caution: Don’t do this if you suffer from migraine, insomnia, low or high blood pressure.”