Create Balance with Vrksasana - Tree Pose

Props:  Yoga mat

• Stand facing the short edge of your mat.  Spread your toes and root down into the 4 corners of your right foot - the base of the big toe, inner heel, base of the pinky toe and outer heel.

• Soften your right knee without bending it.

• Firm your outer right hip.

• Bend your left knee and begin to raise the left leg so the thigh is parallel to the ground.

• Keeping your hips square to the front of your mat and parallel to the floor, turn your left knee out to the left side.

• Place your foot somewhere on the inner side of your right leg.

• Root down through your standing leg.  Press your foot into the leg, unless it is on the knee - press only above or below the knee joint.

• Lift through the lower belly.  Lift and broaden the collarbones. Reach up through the crown of the head.  Press your palms together or reach your arms overhead, palms facing each other.

• Take 5-10 even, steady breaths here.  To come out, turn your left knee back to the front of your mat, and release your foot to the floor.

• Change legs.

Points to Ponder
Use a wall or a chair if you feel unsteady.  For a greater challenge, double your mat over.