Vrikshasana – The Tree Pose

A steady, graceful and selfless demeanour blended with the inner spiritual connection – is the Vrikshasana!

Vriksha denotes tree and asana means posture. Hence, Vrikshasana is also popularly known as the tree pose.

Vrikshasana is one of those Yogasanas which involve the exercise of all the body parts. Right from the feet to the head, all muscles get stretched to maintain proper balance.

Let us understand the steps to attain the proper posture:

1. Stand straight keeping your feet, knees and shoulders along a straight line.
2. While inhaling, raise your hands above your head and join the palms into a ‘namaskar’.
3. Place the sole of your left foot on your right thigh.
4. Close your eyes and chant ‘Om’.
5. While exhaling, lower your hands and legs to rest.
6. Repeat the procedure with your right foot resting on your left thigh.

Well, all this might look much easier than done, but with sufficient practice, you can perfect the posture very soon. However, there are a few beginner-level challenges which we would like to address.

1. You may find it difficult standing on one foot, so you may start by taking the support of a wall or furniture.
2. Avoid standing on uneven surfaces since the sole loses its grip.
3. You may find it difficult to stand with your eyes closed, so initially, you can keep your focus at a fixed point.
4. If you cannot stay too long in the posture, take rest and start again.

The list of advantages of Vrikshasana goes long! 

1. It provides strength to the limbs and spine.
2. It releases back-pain.
3. It facilitates an erect posture.
4. It helps to Relieve Sciatica.
5. It improves concentration and mind-body balance.
6. It removes negativity, stress and anxiety.

If you want a single asana that relieves you of all your physical and mental problems, practise Vrikshasana daily. You will be surprised by the changes outside and within!