Tree Yoga · The original pose reference
Standing Balancing Twist
See this pose in the original book ↗From the original book
The practice.
Here, we have another challenging balance pose that is made much more easily accessible with the help of a tree. Balance is essential in life, and Tree Yoga can help you develop that balance. Additionally, Tree Yoga enhances every twist. You get so much deeper into it by using the trunk as leverage.
Begin facing the tree. You should be far enough away so that when you extend one leg forward, the sole of the foot gets planted on the trunk. Before you extend that leg, root down through the other foot. Then with the legs perpendicular to each other, and with the foot of the lifted leg firmly planted on the trunk, begin to twist towards that lifted leg. Place one hand on the outside of the lifted leg, and reach back behind you with the other arm. Make sure that you keep the spine elongated throughout the entire pose. Practice for a couple of breaths on each side. Enter and exit mindfully.
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