Vrikshasana (Tree pose)

Vrikshasana (Tree pose)

The word “Vriksha” comes from the Sanskrit word which means tree and asana means posture. That’s why it is commonly known as Tree Pose. The Vrikshasana or Tree pose was first described in the 17th century Gheranda Samhita.

It is considered a marvellous yoga pose as it integrates our body, mind and breath. This yoga pose entreats the qualities of mercy, generosity, flexibility, tolerance, strength, endurance, balance and grace which enables an individual to achieve overall growth in his or her life

PREPARATORY POSES

The tree pose or Vrikshasana may seem quite tough, impossible and unrealistic, but with utmost patience and dedication, you can master this pose.

These are the Predatory poses you can practice to master the tree pose or Vrikshasana-

1. Tadasana or Mountain Pose
2. Virabhadrasana II or Warrior II pose
3. Utthita Trikonasana or Extended Triangle Pose
4. Baddha Konasana or Bound Angle Pose

8 EASY STEPS TO FOLLOW

 

The following steps need to be followed while practising the tree pose or Vrikshasana to avail the health benefits of the tree pose or Vrikshasana-

1. Begin with a standing pose (tadasana). Gently spread your toes wide apart, press your feet into the mat and harden your leg muscles. Extend your front hip points toward your lower ribs to gently lift your lower belly.
2. Take a deep breath, lift your chest, and exhale as you draw your shoulder blades down your back. Look straight ahead at a constant gazing spot.
3. Then place your hands on your hips and put forward your right foot high onto your left thigh or shin. Do not make contact with the knee.
4. Gently Press your right foot and left leg into each other.
5. Make sure that your pelvis is level and squared to the front.
6. When you feel steady, slowly place your hands into Anjali Mudra at the heart or stretch your arms overhead like branches reaching into the sun.
7. Hold the pose for several breaths, then stroll back into Mountain Pose and repeat on the other side.

The longer you hold the pose, the more it is fruitful for the body. The capacity to perform & hold the pose differs from person to person. So don’t force yourself to hold for a much longer time. As per your capacity, begin with 10 seconds of practice, and then you may increase the duration up to 1 minute.

 

VRIKSHASANA OR TREE POSE – BENEFICIAL FOR HEALTH

The routine practice of the tree pose or Vrikshasana provides you immense bliss or happiness, or you can say a wide range of mental and physical health benefits. It is very simple to perform for people of all ages and levels of physical wellness. When you practice the tree pose or trikonasana with a clear intention, it has the power to draw you deep inside, lead you toward a meditative state and reveal the immense joy present within your heart. It has a whole inner life that you will explore with regular practice.

Let’s take a look at the health benefits of the tree pose or Vrikshasana-

• It helps in meditation and Pranayama
• It helps in regulating the Muladhara Chakra or Base Chakra
• It harmonizes the Central Nervous System and encourages the Parasympathetic Nervous System
• It aids in reducing Blood Pressure and palpitations.
• It restricts the blood flow to the leg and therefore enhances the digestive power.
• It calms your brain and soul.
• It gives a good stretch to your legs.
• It drives away the stress.
• It improves mobility.
• It helps you in achieving a sense of inner peace.
• It promotes tranquillity.
• It broadens your collarbone and chest.
• It aids in reducing fatigue.
• It gives a gentle massage to your knees, calf muscles and thighs.

IDEAL TIME TO DO The tree pose or Vrikshasana

The ideal time to practice the tree pose or Vrikshasana is in the evening or night (before sleep). Before practising the tree pose or Vrikshasana,  you need sure to keep your stomach & bowels empty. You must have your meals at least four to six hours prior you do this pose so that your food gets digested & there is enough energy for you to disburse during the practice.

You can practice it once or twice a day to get the most from the tree pose or Vrikshasana

CONTRAINDICATIONS AND CAUTIONS

Proper form and technique are vital to ensure the safety and effectiveness of a yoga practice. If you have any of the following health issues, must consult your physician before practising the tree pose or Vrikshasana-

• Low back pain
• Shoulder injury
• Pregnant women
• Back or arm injury
• Hyperacidity
• Hernia
• Slip disc
• Migraine
• Insomnia

You may practice the alternative yoga poses if you can’t do the tree pose or Vrikshasana, such as

1. Tadasana or Mountain Pose
2. Prasarita Padottanasana I or Wide-Legged Forward Bend Pose
3. Balasana or Child Pose

THE BOTTOM LINE

The tree poses or Vrikshasana is a great pose for stretching your shoulders, chest, inner thighs and groins. The routine practice of this pose will enable you to improve your balance, concentration and focus. However, at first glance, this pose may seem easy, but the combination of strength, balance, and flexibility required can take excesses of rehearsal.

So start practising this pose daily and avail numerous physical and mental health benefits. If you are keen to learn more about Vrikhasana or Tree Pose, you can visit our website.

Stay happy, stay strong and get the best out of life.

Keep reading,