Vrikshasana - Tree Pose

In Sanskrit the word "Vriksha" means 'tree'. In this pose the practitioner holds his body still like a tree.

Sequence:

1. Stand erect in Tadasana with your feet joined together.
2. Keep your legs straight and your arms on either side.
3. Lift your right leg and fold it at the knee.
4. Holding the ankle with both hands, pull the leg up.
5. Rest your right foot on the upper part of the left thigh.
6. The toes of the right foot must be pointing downwards.
7. The folded right leg must be perpendicular to the left leg.
8. Balance your body properly on your left leg.
9. Join the palms of both hands in front of your chest, fingers pointing upward.
10. Inhale slowly and gradually raise both your hands up above your head.
11. Keep your arms slightly bent.
12. Stretch your hands and body further up to the maximum limit.
13. Gaze ahead.
14. Keeping your balance, relax for as long as possible.
15. Bring down your hands to chest level.
16. Lower your right leg.
17. Repeat the above steps with the opposite leg.

Benefits:

• Rheumatism patients should practice this pose to alleviate the pain.
• Vrikshasana strengthens the ligaments of feet, tendons and arches.
• Neromuscular coordination improves with the practice of this yoga pose.
• Leg muscles become stronger and get toned.