Tree Yoga · The original pose reference
Easy Pose
See this pose in the original book ↗From the original book
The practice.
Start in a seated position, facing away from the tree. Criss-cross the legs as you bring the back against the trunk. The entire back should be as close as possible to the tree. Do not allow yourself to slouch. Instead, use the tree to help you maintain good posture. Relax the arms down by the sides, and take several deep breaths. Most people do not realize that there are actually 2 ways to criss-cross the legs. Have you ever noticed that whenever you cross the legs that the same leg is typically on top? Make sure you practice this pose with the other leg on top as well — criss-crossed the other way.
Original book text by Alex Julian. Line wrapping and page breaks have been normalized for reading on the web. Personal accounts and energetic interpretations remain part of the original text.
Make the practice fit you.
This is a reference entry, not a required step in a beginner course. Use a comfortable range, keep breathing naturally, and stop if a movement hurts. Inversions and suspended exercises need appropriate instruction and equipment; a tree is not a certified anchor.
Explore the gentle introductory lesson →Keep exploring