Downward facing tree pose
The downward facing tree pose is an advanced pose and is not recommended for beginners.
You can start from the downward facing dog pose. Firm your shoulder blades and spread them against your spine. Spread your fingers on the floor and press your index fingers firmly against the floor. Pull your shoulders at the back towards your tail bone. Keep your spine and torso as erect as possible.
Downward Facing Tree Pose Yoga
Try and swing one leg up into the air, this will automatically cause the other leg to rise. If you are finding it difficult to do so, bend one knee and wing the other leg over into the air. You can practice by going back and forth with your legs until you gain balance and are able to lift your body up into the air.
Once you have gained balance, your body is now lifted up. Do not rest your head on the floor. Your body should be supported on your arms and fingers. Try and keep your spine erect and also try to dispense the body weight equally along the whole body. Now slowly bend the knee of one leg and rest the foot of it on the inner thigh of the other leg, exactly like in the tree pose. Bring the folded leg as close to the groin as possible.
Remain in this pose for at least 10 seconds. You can extend the time once you have gained enough practice. Release by first raising your folded leg up back into the air and then slowly roll your legs back onto the floor. Repeat the same with the other leg.
Benefits of the downward facing tree pose
- This pose makes you aware of your body
- It improves a sense of balance
- It strengthens the arms, shoulders and wrists.
- Strengthens and stretches the abdomen
- It calms the mind
Therapeutically downward facing tree pose fights stress, anxiety and depression.
As a beginner for this pose, it is important to use a wall for support. Be aware that it may take quite a few hops before you can gain complete balance in this pose.
