What is Vriksasana?
This is also referred to as the tree pose since it makes the person stand tall and firm as a tree. The Sanskrit word for tree is Vrksa which is what forms the root of the word. This pose helps focus the mind on how to effectively balance and allows each leg to be trained to provide the precise balance.

What is the technique of practicing it?
The position starts off from a standing pose, with both feet placed slightly apart and facing the same direction. Then one leg, the right or the leg, is bent at the knee and the foot is brought up to the inside of the other leg. The aim should be to bring it up enough to touch the groin and if required, a hand can be used to bring it to that level.

The knee of the raised leg should be pointing outwards to the side while the hips should be facing the same direction as started off from. Both hands are then brought up to the prayer position, clasped in front of the chest. After the body has adjusted to this position, the arms are raised above the head with the palms facing each other. While doing so, the ribs are stretched up. This position is held until the pressure exerted seems to be equally distributed over the body. It can also be helped by pressing the raised leg into the grounded leg. The position may also be explored by raising the arms above the head or stretching them parallel apart.

What are the benefits of it?
Due to the immense pressure put on one leg, it is an extremely helpful exercise in developing calves, ankles and thighs. It helps the body attain a specific balance through toning of the spine. This position also helps stretch the groin and inner thighs. As with other yoga poses, this pose also benefits people suffering from specific ailments such as Sciatica and flat feet.