Vrksa means a tree. It's a balancing exercise. For the most part, it is physically simple, and yet it is mentally highly demanding. This posture develop, to the highest degree, the powers of mental concentration and single-mindedness of thought, as well as physical balance.
The pose tones the leg muscles and gives one a sense of balance and poise. This balancing pose adjusts the vertebrae of the spine and promotes good posture. It refreshes and uplifts the mind.
Common Faults
- Body is leaning to one side, or twisted with one hip pushing out.
- Standing knee is bent, or rotated outwards.
- Palms are not flat against each other.
- Elbows are not straight above the head.
- Thumbs are crossed, instead of side by side.
- Bent knee is coming forwards, rather than pointing out to the side.
- Eyes are looking downwards.
- Mind lacks proper concentration.
The above pose, Half Lotus Tree, is for more advanced, and more flexible, students. Fixing the eyes on a point in front of you is the key to balancing the body.
For this Tree variation, place the foot on the opposite thigh in Half Lotus position. Hold the pose for as long as you feel comfortable. Make sure you practise on both sides.
Source from Yoga Mind & Body - Sivananda Yoga Vedanta Centre
Light on Yoga - B.K.S. Iyengar
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