Deriving its etymological origin from Sanskrit words, Vrksa (means tree) and asana (pose), the Vrksasana or the Tree Pose helps you strengthen your calves, ankles, thighs and back. When constantly practices, it increases your balance, concentration and provides ample flexibility to your hips and groins. Though the Tree Pose may seem to be a simple yoga pose, still it requires perfect balancing on the part of the yogi.
Here is brief tutorial that should help yoga practitioners master this yoga pose and reap its rich benefits:
Steps Involved
1. Starting it with Tadasana or the Mountain Pose, now shift you bodyweight onto the right foot.
2. Next, raise your left foot and place it on the inner part of your right leg while exhaling. Bring it as closer to the groin areas as is possible for you. Your toes should point downwards.
3. Now, inhale and stretch your arms sideways. Your palms should face down.
4. Next, you should press your hands together in Prayer Position or the Anjali Mudra. While ensuring that your hands are folded in Prayer Position, raise your arms overhead. Try to concentrate on a point, about four to five feet in front of you.
5. Finally, try to be in this position for a minute initially. With regular practice, you can increase the duration to 3-4 minutes. Now, reverse your legs and repeat the pose.
Benefits
1. The Vrksasana or the Tree Pose is highly beneficial for people suffering with sciatica.
2. Those who find it difficult to focus on an object, issue or idea, can develop a sense of balance.
3. Aside from helping you strengthen your calves, spine, ankles and thighs, this pose stretches your groins, chest and shoulders.
Cautions
If you are suffering with headache, insomnia or low blood pressure, you should avoid this pose. High blood pressure patients should not raise their arms overhead.
