Vriksha means tree; In this asana, one stands straight and firm as a tree, hence the name.
Steps for Practice:
1. Stand erect with legs together, hands by the side of thigh, gaze in front.
2. Fold your right leg at the knee and place the sole near the left thigh joint.
3. Bring both the hands in Namaskara Mudra.
4. After maintaining it for some time, release your hands and stand on both the feet.
5. Now practice similarly from the other leg. This completes one round of Vrikshasana.
Benefits
1. This improves body-minded co-ordination.
2. Thigh and calf muscles, ankles and the spine are made strong.
3. Stretches the groins and inner thighs, chest and shoulders
4. Improves sense of balance.
5. Relieves sciatica and reduces flat feet.
Precautions
1. Remember to Stand erect.
2. Folded knee should point toward their respective sides.
3. This is a balancing pose. If you feel like losing your balance then come back and practice again.
4. People with high blood pressure should not raise their arms overhead.
Beginners Tip: If your raised foot tends to slide down the inner standing thigh, put a folded sticky mat between the raised-foot sole and the standing inner thigh.
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