Hi, friends. It’s Friday, and we’re going to be taking a look at Vrksasana, or Tree Pose, from the perspective of doing the pose a little more actively than you might normally do.
This image shows a fairly conventional Vrksasana with hands at the heart. When we do the pose this way, the focus might be first on staying upright, and then on getting the lifted foot as high as possible. For one thing, getting the foot higher on the thigh is gratifying because it’s measurable, and it seems to show progress. It’s pleasing to the eye. Also, it keeps the foot off the knee, which we’re often told to do. We then tend to push the foot and leg into each other to create some engagement and stability through the legs and pelvis, and/or work on pressing the lifted knee back.
All this is fine, if it feels good.
And we know that our body (and mind) benefit from variety. When you do the same poses in lots of different ways, you increase your available movement options. You also increase the salience of your experience by changing things up, and give your tissues more different types of inputs that they need to be healthy and adaptable.
There is no ONE right way to do Vrksasana (or any pose).
Here is one way you might play with – if it feels good. If you have pain or anything about this pose doesn’t feel right, please stop and consult a doctor or physical therapist. If you enjoyed this approach, join me for a group class to explore more ways to incorporate strength and healthy movement into your practice, or sign up for a private workshop to learn how to tailor poses to your needs.
The information, instruction, and advice contained in this video and post are in no way intended or implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. All content is for general informational purposes only. Not all exercises are suitable for everyone. Consult your doctor before beginning this or any exercise program.
Rachel Ishiguro Yoga Therapy 