Tree Yoga · The original pose reference
Tree Hug Pose
See this pose in the original book ↗From the original book
The practice.
The closer you bring the body to the tree, the more negative energy you release, and the more positive energy you absorb. There are not just high concentrations of nerves in the hands and feet, but also in the stomach, heart, and face. Don’t forget about the brain itself. By bringing all these parts of the body close to the tree, you establish the strongest connection possible — allowing for the best energy flow. Connection is one of the main things people crave, as well as one of the most important things people are missing. This pose can quite literally reconnect you to the feeling of connection. Remember, the tree is alive. It does not have arms, but it is energetically hugging you back.
Get as close as possible to the tree and wrap your arms around the trunk — giving the tree a hug. Hug the tree as if you were hugging someone you love. The face can be right against the trunk, or turned to the side. Breathe deeply in this position for several minutes.
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