1. Be Like a Tree
Begin the Tree Pose by standing straight with your feet firmly planted on the floor. Slowly lift one foot from the floor and bend your knee bringing the bottom of your foot to press firmly into your inner thigh. Keep your toes pointed to the floor. Bring the palms of the hands together to rest in front of your chest with your fingers pointed to the ceiling. Open your mind, and concentrate on a spot on the floor several feet in front of you.
2. Not For Everyone
The Tree Position may seem simple, but not everyone should attempt it. Those suffering from chronic headaches or migraines should not use this yoga position. Sufferers of insomnia should not use this pose either, since it revitalizes the body and stimulates the mind, making relaxation even harder. The tree pose effects circulation, so avoid this position if you have high or low blood pressure.
3. Beginner's Tips
Balancing in the tree pose is challenging at first. The ankle of the leg bearing the weight tends to wobble for beginners. Concentrate on keeping the inner arch of the foot planted firmly to the floor to decrease wobbling. It may help to start practicing this position against a wall. Keep your shoulders, butt, and heel touching the wall to stay aligned. Another problem beginners may face is the propped foot sliding down the leg. Fix this problem by placing a yoga mat between the sole of the foot and your thigh to add traction.
4. Being a Tree Has Benefits
Practicing the Tree Pose on a regular basis has several physical benefits. Over time, you can strengthen your thighs, calves, ankles and spine. The groins, inner thighs, shoulders and chest can become more flexible, and your posture will improve. The Tree Pose also relieves symptoms of sciatica. This position can even reduce flat feet by tightening ligaments and muscles in the arch of the foot.
5. Find Inner Balance
The single greatest benefit of the Tree Pose is the improvement of inner and outer balance. Challenge your sense of balance further by raising your arms straight above your head with your palms facing one another. Another variation is to keep your palms together directly over your head in an inverted v-shape. Once you have mastered this, try closing your eyes to separate yourself from all outside references.
Member Comments