6. Balancing postures: The tree (vrksasasana)
Balancing postures improves concentration while at the same time taking your mind off everyday tension. The mind is occupied with and concentrates on posture and balance.
The vrksasasana is a classic meditation pose. Begin by standing in the tadasana position. Concentrate on the left foot. Raise your right foot slightly and become used to all your weight being on the left foot. Bend your right knee and place the sole of your right foot against your left thigh. Do not strain yourself to point your knee out at a completely right angle. Let it point wherever is comfortable. Put your right foot as high on your left thigh as is comfortable.
To start with, it is a good idea to hold on to the back of a chair to establish balance. Focusing your gaze on a point in front of you also assists balance. When you are ready, slowly bring your hands together in front of your chest as if you are praying.
When you are used to the position, you can raise your hands, still together in the praying position, above your head. This is the final 'tree' position. Visualize yourself as a tree with roots growing into the earth. This both helps your balance and establishes a connection with the earth, which will replenish energies lost during the day.
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