Table of Contents
Vrikshasana – Tree Pose Yoga
Vrikshasana (वृक्षासन –Vrikshasana in Hindi) also called the Tree Pose is an excellent balancing Yoga Pose. The Tree pose represents the graceful stance and serenity of a tree. The name Vrikshasana comes from two Sanskrit words Vrikhsa (वृक्ष) meaning ‘tree’, and Asana (आसन) meaning ‘posture’ or ‘pose’. Vrikshasana has been used by many yogis to meditate. According to Hindu mythology, Ravana stood in the posture for months with absolute concentration and strong determination which eventually leads to Ravana being blessed by LordShiva with the boon.
Vrikshasana Steps
- Stand upright with the feet together with arms at the sides.
- Focus your gaze on a fixed point in front of the body.
- Bend your right leg, grasp the ankle and place the sole of the foot on the inner side of the left thigh.
- You should make sure that the sole is placed firm and flat on the root of the thigh with the right knee pointing on the side.
- Your left leg should remain straight.
- Now try to balance yourself on the left leg and allow the breath to be normal.
- Once you are steady, inhale, and gently raise your arms over your head and bring them together in a prayer position or ‘Namaste’.
- Your spine and chest should be held straight.
- Balance the pose as long as you can as balancing in the final pose is of utmost importance in Tree Pose.
- Breathe normally in this position.
- To release the pose, exhale and bring down the hands from the sides.
- Gently release your right leg and bring it to the floor.
- Repeat this pose with the left leg.
Vrikshasana (Tree Pose) benefits
- Tree Pose brings balance and equilibrium to your mind.
- It helps improve your concentration as all balancing yoga poses do.
- Vrikshasana strengthens the ligaments and tendon of the feet.
- It will also strengthen and tone your entire standing leg, up to the buttocks.
- The Tree Pose develops self-confidence and esteem in you.
- It improves balance and stability in your legs.
Tree Pose (Vrikshasana) Contraindications
- People suffering from a migraine, high blood pressure or low blood pressure should avoid practicing Vrikshasana.
- People with vertigo or insomnia should also avoid the practice of this asana.
- People with high blood pressure can practice this pose without raising their hands overhead and joining their palm in Namaste at the center of the chest.
Vrikshasana or tree pose is a wonderful Yoga Pose that brings balance to you while toning the muscles of your legs at the same time. This elegant pose further brings tremendous inner and outer strength and a great feeling of accomplishment as you learn to balance on one leg.
