Chapter 01 · Reading companion
What is Tree Yoga?
The school begins with a relationship: time spent with actual trees. Alex’s opening chapter traces how teaching yoga, exploring nature, mentorship, and spiritual study came together in Tree Yoga.
A new companion to the original chapter, developed with AI assistance. Summaries and practice connections are adaptations, rather than a transcription.
Read the original · printed p. 1The roots of the school
The original work brings yoga and time in nature into one practice. Trees become companions for movement and subjects of attention, rather than a backdrop to an indoor routine moved outside.
Meditation and contemplation
The chapter distinguishes returning attention to one point from allowing reflection to make connections. Both have a place here: observe a detail of a tree, or consider what that encounter brings to mind.
Learning becomes practice
Reading introduces the work. The next step is a small visit with a tree. You do not need to finish the book before beginning the introductory observation lesson.
Bring it into practice
What happens when a tree becomes the subject of your attention?
Let this question accompany a short visit. Reflect quietly or keep a note for yourself.
Your First Five Minutes with a TreeKeep exploring
The book continues outside.
Meet a pine, explore its contemplative character, and try returning your attention to one clear point.
Explore Pine in the Tree Library