Tree Yoga · The original pose reference
Mountain Pose
See this pose in the original book ↗From the original book
The practice.
Begin in a standing position, facing away from the tree. You want to be as close to the trunk as possible, but without leaning against it for support. Ground down through the soles of the feet, while also consciously lengthening up through the crown of the head. Keep the heart up, and the shoulders rolled down and back. To fully experience this pose as it is meant to, become like the tree. With the eyes closed, visualize roots growing down through the soles of the feet — deeply into the Earth. Additionally, feel yourself growing higher through the crown toward the sky with each breath. Trees teach us ideal posture. They are always rooting deeper and reaching higher. Take several full breaths in this strong position. You can also practice this pose while facing the tree.
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