May - Tree Pose
V R K S A S A N A
vrks - tree asana - posture, pose or seat (all poses end with this)
Focus
Try finding one point about 5ft head of you to keep your gaze fixed on. By steadying your eyes you might find it easier to balance in Tree Pose, or any other balancing asana.
BENEFITS
- Strengthens feet, legs buttocks, back, abdomen and shoulders
- Stretches legs Stabilizes ankles, knees, hips; relieves sciatica
- Stimulates nervous system
- Develops concentration, balance, poise
PRECAUTIONS - PROCEED WITH CARE IF YOU HAVE
- Uncontrolled high blood pressure or heat conditions: practice carefully, do not lift arms overhead
- Weak knees: keep standing knee soft/slightly bent to avoid hyper extension.
- Difficulty balancing: lift only heel, leave toes on ground or block.
“The tree brings both body and mind into balance. While learning to balance, you will have many opportunities to practice self-acceptance. As you become able to hold the posture, the body will become still and the mind peaceful.
Multiple factors work together to allow you to remain balanced on one leg. The first is focusing the gaze on point. The second is working to keep the standing leg straight and thigh muscle contracted. The third is the portion of the lifted knee, which in all variations presses down gently and back. The last is the elongation of the spine, which begins with the leveling of the pelvis and continues to the pressing of the fingertips to the ceiling. When all those come together, balance results.”