Tree Pose
Vṛkṣāsanaवृक्षासन
A single-leg balance that asks for soft focus rather than gritted effort.
- Foundational
- 20–40 seconds each side
- Difficulty 2 of 5
General guidance only — work within a range that feels stable and pain-free.
How to practice
- 01
From Mountain Pose, root the left foot and find a soft point to look at.
- 02
Bend the right knee and place the sole on the inner calf or inner thigh.
- 03
Bring the hands to the heart, or raise them overhead if balance is steady.
- 04
Lengthen the tailbone down and the crown up; let the standing hip stay level.
- 05
Release the foot down with control, then change sides.
Benefits
- Develops balance and proprioception
- Strengthens the standing leg and ankle
- Opens the hip of the lifted leg
- Trains concentration through a steady gaze
Breath
Steady, unforced breath. If the breath shortens, lower the arms or the foot.
Cautions
Variations
- Toe on the floor
- Rest the big toe on the floor for a gentler balance.
- Eagle arms
- Wrap the arms in front of the chest for a shoulder challenge.
The practice letter
One email a month: a sequence to try, one pose explained properly, and something worth reading. No offers, no countdowns.
