This posture is also known as the Vriksha Asana.

 

The tree pose asana has multiple benefits by strengthening thighs, calves ankles and spine, stretching the inner thighs and groin area and in improving the sense of balance.

 

Beware of undertaking this exercise if you have any doubts that your blood pressure is not within normal healthy limits.

 

Avoid raising your arms above your head in this workout if you suffer from high blood pressure and seek medical advice before attempting the complete asana if your blood pressure is low.

 

• Stand upright with the feet together and arms by the side.

 

• Raise the right thigh by bending the knee and support it by pressing the sole of foot as high up as possible on the inside of the left thigh.

 

• While balancing on the left foot, keep the arms straight and raise them both together above the head and hold the palms together, inhaling steadily as you do so.

 

• Hold this posture and exhale and inhale ten times or as near as possible.

 

• Return your right leg and arms to the starting position, pause and then repeat the movement, this time raising the left leg.

 

Carry this out for as long as you feel comfortable.

 

Achieving balance on either leg for a length of time is challenging.

 

The practice of the vriksha asana will help to calm a restless mind and drive away distractions as you concentrate on maintaining balance.

 

As you become more accomplished in this posture try closing your eyes and focus on your balance and trying not to sway.

 

Yogis associate the posture with a tree; the leg you are balancing on is the trunk rooted in the ground the arms, other leg and head as branches and leaves.

 

If you imagine this while practicing the pose you will find it an aid to concentration on maintaining balance and refreshing your mind.

 

The Tree Pose can also of be of benefit in relieving sciatica and in reducing flat feet.