StandingBalance
Tree Pose
Vrikshasana
A classic one-legged balancing pose where one foot is placed on the inner thigh or calf of the standing leg. It cultivates steadiness and concentration.
- ·Improves balance
- ·Strengthens ankles and legs
- ·Develops focus
Instructions
- 1Stand tall in Mountain Pose, feet rooted into the mat, spine long.
- 2Shift your weight onto your left foot and slowly lift your right foot off the ground.
- 3Place the sole of the right foot on the inner left calf or inner left thigh — never on the knee joint.
- 4Bring your hands to your heart center in prayer position, or extend them overhead with palms facing each other.
- 5Fix your gaze on a still point at eye level to support your balance.
- 6Hold for 5–8 breaths, then release and repeat on the other side.
Contraindications & precautions
- ⚠Ankle sprain or instability — the single-leg balance demands full joint integrity; practice near a wall for support.
- ⚠Low blood pressure or recent dizziness episodes — prolonged single-leg standing can trigger light-headedness.
- ⚠Hip replacement — placing the foot on the inner thigh creates rotation forces that may stress the prosthesis; consult your surgeon.
