Tree Yoga · The original pose reference
Forearm Stand
See this pose in the original book ↗From the original book
The practice.
Begin in tabletop position, facing away from the tree, and with the feet close to the trunk. Next, make a strong foundation with the forearms. They should be parallel, and about shoulder-width apart. It is helpful to gently press the forearms away from each other, in addition to actively pressing down. This gives you a better connection with the ground. With the core engaged, walk the feet up the tree. Keeping one foot connected to the trunk, extend the other leg up. Practice for a couple of breaths, and then switch the legs. Challenge yourself to get lighter with the foot connected to the tree. Exit in reverse order as slowly as possible.
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