Vrikshasana images

1. Legs (R): bent outwards, active thighs and knee (L): long, active, knee cap lifted 2. Feet and Toes (R): lifted, active arch, resting above inner knee cap, toes pointed down (L): grounded, active arch, toes pointed straight 3. Hips (R): active, external rotation (L): square 4. Shoulders: flexed, lifted, away from ears 5. Chest and Rib Cage: broad, lifted upwards Chin: aligned 6. Arms: raised, long, away from ears, active elbows, palms together, fingers active 7. Spine: lifted from base, long, active Back and Front: broad, lifted upwards, active 8. Muscles: calves, quadriceps, hamstrings, groins, gluteus, pelvis, core Navel: pulled in and up to support back 9. Gaze: a point ahead Breath: soft breathing to balance yogaposes

Vriksha - Tree; Asana - Posture or Pose The asana is pronounced as VRIK-shAH-sana 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 How to do 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. • Make sure that your left leg is straight. 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 in ‘Namaste’ mudra (hands-folded position). • Look straight ahead in front of you, at a distant object. A steady gaze helps maintain a steady balance. • Ensure that your • 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 of the Vrikshasana (Tree Pose) • This pose leaves you in a state of rejuvenation. It stretches the legs, back and arms, and invigorates you. • It brings • It helps improve concentration. • This posture has been found to relieve some cases of sciatica. • It makes the legs strong, improves balance, and opens the hips. • Helps those who are Contraindications of the Vrikshasana (Tree Pose) Avoid doin...