Tree Pose
Vriksasana (vrik-shah-sə-nə[needs IPA]; Sanskrit: वृक्षासनम्; IAST: vṛkṣāsana) or Tree Pose is an asana. The name comes from the Sanskrit words vriksa or vriksha (वृक्ष, vṛkṣa) meaning "tree", and asana (आसन) meaning "posture".
From Tadasana, weight is shifted to one leg, for example, starting with the left leg. The entire sole of the foot remains in contact with the floor. The right knee is bent and the right foot placed on the left inner thigh, or in half lotus position. With the toes of the right foot pointing directly down, the left foot, center of the pelvis, shoulders and head are all vertically aligned. Hands are typically held above the head either pointed directly upwards and unclasped, or clasped together in anjali mudra.
The asana is typically held for 20 to 60 seconds to stretch the spine, returning to tadasana while exhaling, then repeating standing on the opposite leg.
- Strengthens thighs, calves, ankles, and spine
- Stretches the groins and inner thighs, chest and shoulders
- Improves sense of balance
- Relieves sciatica and reduces flat feet
