ASANAS/YOGA POSTURES - Vrikshasana/Tree pose

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.

Vriksha - Tree; Asana - Posture or Pose

The asana is pronounced as VRIK-shAH-sana

Benefits of the Vrikshasana

This pose 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. It helps improve concentration. It makes the legs strong, improves balance, and opens the hips.

Contraindications of the Vrikshasana

Avoid doing this posture if you are suffering from migraine, insomnia, low or high blood pressure (those with high blood pressure may do this pose but without raising their hands overhead, as this may further raise their blood pressure).

How to do the Vrikshasana

1. Stand tall and straight with arms by the side of your body.
2. 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. – Or for a simpler pose, place the foot on the side of the shin.
3. Make sure that your left leg is straight. Find your balance.
4. 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). 
5. Look straight ahead in front of you, at a distant object. A steady gaze helps maintain a steady balance.
6. Ensure that your spine is straight. Your entire body should be taut, like a stretched elastic band. Keep taking in long deep breaths. With each exhalation, relax the body more and more. Just be with the body and the breath with a gentle smile on your face.
7. With slow exhalation, gently bring down your hands from the sides. You may gently release the right leg.
8. 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/shin.

Yoga practice helps develop the body and mind bringing a lot of health benefits yet is not a substitute for medicine. 

Please remember that small changes can have massive impact on how we think and feel - even if it seems too easy. With consistent practice and attention, positive results will follow. - Practice light yoga daily - whether it is a couple of minutes of meditation and 2-3 yoga poses - experience the results yourself :)