How to Do a Tree Pose in Yoga

Yoga is one of the best exercise practices that is often safe (when performed correctly) as it includes meditation, relaxation, control of breath, and various physical postures. It provides excellent stability along with mobility which is what the body needs for proper movement.

The Tree Pose is one of many Yoga poses that improves focus and concentration while calming your mind.

Follow these steps to do a proper Tree Pose:

1. Begin standing in Mountain Pose, with your arms at your sides as shown to the right. Distribute your weight evenly across both feet, firmly grasping the floor with your toes.
2. With your hands on your hips, shift your weight to your left foot. Bend your right knee, then slowly draw your right foot alongside your inner left thigh. Do not rest your foot against your knee, only above or below it, depending on your yoga level. Adjust your position so the center of your pelvis is directly over your left foot.
3. Press your palms together in prayer position at your chest, with your thumbs resting on your sternum.
4. Focus on one, unmoving point 2 to 3 feet in front of you.
   
5. Draw down through your left foot to maintain balance. Press your right foot into your left thigh, while pressing your thigh equally against your foot.
6. Inhale as you extend your arms overhead, reaching your fingertips to the sky. Rotate your palms inward to face each other. If your shoulders are more flexible, you can press your palms together in prayer position, overhead.
7. Hold for up to one minute. To release the pose, lower your arms and step back into Mountain Pose. Repeat for the same amount of time on the opposite side.