Finding our tree
The Gentle Yoga class I lead once a week is working on balance as we start the new year. Last week tree pose was introduced. The plan is to continue to practice tree throughout the month with additional steps as options. The benefits of this posture are incredible and include more than balance! Benefits of this posture include improved focus and concentration, strength and stability in the legs, improvement in balance and core strength, opening the hips. Nice, right?
Want to try the first step at home? I recommend practicing it every day (more than once if you can fit it in).
Begin by standing in mountain pose, feet hips distance apart. Feet are firmly grounded on the earth. Hands rest on your hips or at heart center “prayer position”.
Next shift your weight to the right leg, placing the sole of your left foot against the inside of your ankle. Yes, like a kickstand. Your toe is touching the ground. Your left knee is pointing away from you.
Find your balance here and perhaps gaze at a focal point (called a drishti in yoga). Hands can remain at rest, or raise above your head ( as if growing your branches.) After a few breaths, move to the other side shifting weight to the left leg.
This is the first step in tree and offers all of the benefits described above! Don't be afraid to put your hand on the wall if it gives you confidence. We are all starting in a different place and they are all equally beautiful. It may be helpful to visualize energy coming up from the earth into the foundation of your tree to support and stabilize. Have an amazing week. I can't wait to hear your experiences.
“Like a tree, extend your roots down and blossom your arms up toward the sun. The stronger the roots, the taller the tree.” Baron Baptiste