This is a lunge variation that is very beneficial to practice. With this particular variation, you are still increasing lower body strength, but also get the added benefit of stretching the inner thigh. Begin facing the tree, with both hands on the trunk. You should be 1 or 2 feet away from the trunk, with a wide stance. The toes should be slightly angled out. On an inhalation, bend one knee to drop the hips down while keeping the other leg straight. With the extended leg, you can keep the sole of the foot down, or you can lift the toes up. Whichever way, on an exhalation, drive down through the heel of the bent knee and press back up to standing. Alternate sides as you move with the breath, or you can hold this position at the bottom for several breaths on each side.