Since the last two weeks of Family Friday posts highlighted mindfulness and relaxation techniques, I think it’s time to get moving!
This week’s Family Yoga edition focuses on tree pose. I’m not sure exactly what it is about tree pose, but kids love it. I mean really LOVE it.
Every time I tell a class we are going to practice tree pose, they immediately get into position and want to show me their tree. It’s such a fun pose that’s easy to do alone or with a partner or group.
Let’s get started:
(1) Get Grounded
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Plant your feet on the ground.
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Imagine a string at the top of your head pulling you up.
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Stand tall in mountain pose.
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Soften or close your eyes and take a few slow, deep breaths.
(2) Time to Practice
(stage 1)
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Begin to put all of your weight on one leg.
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Bring the heel of the other foot to rest on the ankle.
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The trick to keeping your balance is to focus on something in the room that is not moving, an object on the floor or wall usually works.
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Arms can be extending like tree branches, palm to palm in front of your chest, or held down at your side. You can even wave your arms like it’s it’s a windy day. Anything goes here!
(stage 2)
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Bring the foot to rest on the standing leg below the knee.
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Take a few deep breaths in this position
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If you need help balancing, you can place your hand on a chair or stool.
(stage 3)
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Bring the foot to rest on the standing leg above the knee.
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Be careful that you and your child do not place the foot on the knee.
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Take a few breaths here.
Now it’s time to try it on the other side. Often one side is more difficult than the other. See which side is easier for you and for your family.
(3) Now for the Real Fun – Practicing Family Tree or Forest:
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This pose can be practiced facing your partner, back to back, or side to side.
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For face to face: stand tall and clasp hands high like tree branches. Bring your leg into tree and see how long you can hold together.
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For back to back: stand tall with your backs touching. Hold hands low. Bring leg into tree. You can try making the same side leg your tree, or alternate sides.
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For side to side: stand next to your child with your sides touching. Have the outer leg go into tree. Wrap your inner arms around each other’s lower back. If you feel secure, you can bring your outer hands to press together in the center.
Have fun with your child trying different forms of the pose! If you fall down, just get back up and try again!
As you can see from the pics, feel free to practice in your pjs and have your dog join in on the fun!
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