Try Vrikshasana or the Tree Pose on International Yoga Day!

Pronounced as Vrik-shah-sana, this yoga posture replicates the graceful, steady stance of a tree. The Tree Pose requires you to keep your eyes open in order to maintain your body balance.

How to I do the Tree Pose or Vrikshasana?

• Stand tall and straight with your arms by the side of the 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 at a distant object in front of you. A steady gaze helps maintain a steady balance.
• 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.
• 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.

What are the benefits of the Tree Pose or Vrikshasana?

• This yoga pose leaves you in a state of rejuvenation as it stretches the legs, back and arms.
• It brings balance and equilibrium to your mind.
• It improves concentration.
• This posture has been found to relieve some cases of sciatica (Pain radiating along the sciatic nerve, which runs down one or both legs from the lower back).
• It makes the legs strong, improves balance and opens the hips.

Who should avoid the Tree Pose or Vrikshasana?

Those who 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).

Celebrate International Yoga Day Today by doing the Tree Pose and Planting Trees to Greet Friends with an eTreeCertificate (like a Greeting Card)!

Unable to view the above button? Click here to plant now!

SOURCE: Desiyogaguru & Art Of Living