With the hustle and bustle of daily life, it's easy to forget the harmony that exists between humans and nature. Yoga, with its focus on mindfulness and connection, is often seen as a way to bring balance to the mind and body. One of the most profound expressions of this connection is through the practice of yoga in trees, where individuals seek to align with the energy and essence of these living structures.
The Magic of Trees
Trees, with their interconnected roots, twisted Branches, and serene presence, have captivated humans for centuries. In瑜伽 philosophy, trees are viewed as powerful象征izers of生命力, offering stability, wisdom, and a connection to the divine. By practicing yoga in the presence of trees, individuals can tap into this ancient wisdom and find solace in the embrace of nature.
Practicing Yoga in the Trees
Practicing yoga in trees involves finding a quiet spot where you can safely approach a tree and engage in basic yoga poses. Whether you choose to sit, lie down, or stand, the key is to connect with the tree and allow its energy to guide your practice. Here are some poses that can be practiced in the presence of trees:
-
Be the Tree Pose: Connect with the energy of the tree and embody its strengths. Practice this pose with slow, deep breaths, and imagine your body growing taller as you ground your energy through your feet into the earth.
-
Stand Side Bend: Turn your head to one side and focus on the branch above. Reach your hand towards the tree and allow your left hip to press away from the tree, gently pressing your left arm up and overhead. Repeat on the other side.
-
Stand Back Bend: Stand with your spine towards the tree and gently let your hips press forward. Reach up with your arms and hold the trunk of the tree with your palms. Feel the space in your side ribs as you lengthen through your spine.
-
Downward-Facing Dog Pose (Adho Mukha Svanasana): Get close to the tree and lengthen through your spine. Walk your hands down the tree and step your feet back. Hold this pose as you breathe and feel the Earth beneath your feet.
-
Warrior Pose III (Virabhadrasana III): Stand in front of the tree and place your hands upon its trunk.铰链从臀部开始，沿树干向下移动你的手。当你到90度角时暂停，然后吸气，延长你的左腿，使身体如长矛般从你的伸展腿的脚跟延伸到头顶的手中。
-
Tree Pose (Vkrsasana): 站在树旁边，感受到树的根。将靠近树的手掌（假设是右手的食指弯曲）放在树的树干上，弯曲左膝，将左脚的脚底放在内大腿的内侧。保持这个舒适的姿势。
The Science Behind Yoga in Trees
Research suggests that practicing yoga in trees can have a beneficial impact on mental and physical health. For example, a study published in the journal "International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health" found that participants who participated in a nature-based intervention, such as yoga in trees, experienced reduced stress hormones and improved heart rate variability.
Another study, published in the "BMC Complementary Alternative Medicine," found that participants who practiced forest bathing had lower blood pressure and reduced stress, anxiety, and depression symptoms.
The Role of Trees in Yoga Philosophy
In the oldest yoga texts, such as the Yoga Sutras of Patanjali, the sage Shiva is often depicted as resting under a banyan tree. This symbolizes the interconnectedness of all things and the idea that the universe is a unity. By practicing yoga in the presence of trees, individuals can tap into this ancient wisdom and find a deeper connection with the natural world.
Yoga in Trees for Everyone
Yoga in trees can be practiced by anyone, regardless of age or fitness level. All that is required is a willingness to connect with nature and a quiet place to practice. Whether you are a beginner or an advanced practitioner, the practice of yoga in trees can be tailored to your individual needs and preferences.
Yoga in trees is a powerful practice that allows individuals to tap into the natural harmony between humans and nature. By engaging in basic yoga poses in the presence of trees, individuals can find solace in the embrace of nature, reduce stress, and improve overall wellbeing. As we continue to navigate the complexities of modern life, the practice of yoga in trees offers a peaceful reminder of our interconnectedness with the natural world.
References:
*Corazon, R., Martínez, D., Dadvand, P., Forns, J., Plasència, A., Ros, M., & Nieuwenhuijsen, M. J. (2019). Psycho-Physiological Stress Recovery in Outdoor Nature-Based Interventions: A Systematic Review of the Past Eight Years of Research. International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, 16(10), E1711.
*Farrow, P.T., & Washburn, K. (2019). A review of field experiments on the effect of forest bathing on anxiety and heart rate variability. Global Advances in Health Medicine, 8.
*Hansen, M.M., Jones, R., & Tocchini, K. (2019). Shinrin-yoku (forest bathing) and nature therapy: A state-of-the-art review. International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, 14(8), 851.
*Ideno, C., Kishi, K., & Tomoda, K. (2017). Blood pressure-lowering effect of Shinrin-yoku (forest bathing): A systematic review and meta-analysis. BMC Complementary Alternative Medicine, 17(1), 409.
*Oh, S., Song, D., Koh, Y., Kim, S., & Lee, J. (2017). Health and well-being benefits of spending time in forests: a systematic review. Environmental Health and Preventative Medicine, 22(1):71.
