Xmas Tree Pose

This is a balance pose which is good for this time of year when we may get overwhelmed and busy close to Christmas. When you perform any balance pose it works on equalizing the right and left hemispheres of the brain. We all tend to operate from our left brain predominantly, which is responsible for reason, thoughts and stress! The right brain is more creative and intuitive. By tuning into it, we can feel more relaxed and at peace. Isn’t Christmas a time to be peaceful?

Stand on one leg and place the sole of the other foot onto the thigh of the standing leg. It doesn’t have to be as high as the picture shows, as long as it is not pressing into the side of your knee joint. The foot can press into the leg even at the calf muscle level. If you are wearing shoes just standing on one leg will do! Try to focus your eyes on one spot that is not moving. If this is easy try to close your eyes! That is a challenge.

The tree pose also strengthens your legs, ankles and feet. It is fantastic for your core strength to balance. Have fun with it and practice it with the kids. Lift your arms, pretend to be a tree in a hurricane or covered in snow. Feel your roots going deep into the earth. Practice this one outside if you can.

Merry Christmas!

Yoga and Pilates are both wonderful ways to shape and tone your body. Exercise that is enjoyable makes you feel energized afterwards. Many of the exercises are designed to relieve back pain.

Website: www.melindawright72.wixsite.com/website

Email: melindawright72@yahoo.com.au