Yoga is known to be one of the best forms of exercises today. It strengthens the mind and the body through different poses which are also known as asanas. Both young and old could easily take advantage of the benefits from practicing yoga regularly. This is because yoga poses can easily be adjusted to fit to an individual’s physical limitations.
My favourite and one of the more popular yoga poses would be the tree pose or Vrksasana. The tree pose is known in yoga as a balance pose that makes use of the three lines of energy, starting from the center going outwards. The first line goes through the straight leg, the second extends up the spine going to the fingertips, and the third line of energy moves outward going through the bent knee.
The tree pose is one of the best positions when practicing yoga as it enhances mental concentration while taking on a calmer mind. It also improves stability and balance. It strengthens the back, the thighs, legs, calves, ankles and feet. It is also good in increasing the flexibility of the groin, the hips and the knees. Yoga experts recommend the tree pose for those individuals who are suffering from Sciatica and for those who have flat feet.
Here are the steps on how to properly execute the tree pose.
1. Start by aligning yourself in the mountain pose or standing straight with both feet together. Make sure to continue your smooth and flowing breathing.
2. On your next inhale, put most of your weight on your left foot and lay it flat on the ground as you start to balance.
3. As you exhale, slowly bend your right knee. Assisting with your hand, position your right foot’s sole as high as possible on your inner left thigh. Make sure that your toes are pointing down. Continue breathing smoothly as you steady yourself.
3. As you inhale again, stretch out your arms sideways forming a “T”, with your palms facing down.
4. As you exhale, bring both palms together to form a prayer position. Make sure to keep your eyes focused on one point in front of your body, as this would help you get more balanced.
5. Raise both arms overhead, while keeping palms in a prayer position. Aside from focusing on a fixed point to maintain balance, it would also help to breathe through your stomach.
6. Practice until you are able to comfortably hold the pose for about 30 seconds.
7. Repeat everything but this time try to stand on your right foot and lift your left.
As you start trying to execute this pose, it could help to make use of a back brace placed against a wall to keep yourself steady.
Also, remember that those individuals who have insomnia or are suffering from a headache as well as those with high blood or low blood pressure must be extra careful while doing this yoga pose.
