YanvaYoga > Yoga Poses > Holy Fig Tree Pose

Holy Fig Tree Pose - Ashwanasana

13.02.202314.02.2023

Holy Fig Tree Pose or Ashwanasana (ahsh-wahn-AH-sah-nah) is an asymmetric balancing yoga pose suitable for beginners. Some consider it to be a variation of Vrikshasana or tree pose where the yogi stands on one leg, the other leg back, one arm up, and the other out. The body spreads wide like a fig tree and is stretched in three different planes while keeping on one-foot stay balanced.

Beginner’s level pose has mental and emotional benefits as well as physical benefits as well as improves one’s sense of balance in space. It promotes static awareness and the opening and stretching of the body wide are the key aspects of this standing-balancing pose.

Pose Detail

By Type: Balancing Yoga Poses, Hip Opening Yoga Poses, Shoulder Opening Yoga Poses, Strengthening Yoga Poses
Difficulty: Beginners
Body Position: Standing Yoga Poses

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1

Stand with both feet joined together

Step 2

Raise the right leg back as far as possible keeping the knee straight or locked

Step 3

Keep the left leg on the floor

Step 4

Now raise the left arm upwards palm facing the front and elbows locked

Step 5

Raise the right arm sideways parallel to the right shoulder palm facing the floor

Step 6

Chest should be expanded.

Step 7

Remain in this position for a count of 10 seconds then repeat it with the other side alternating the position of the legs

Benefits and Contraindications

Benefits

Improves respiration and circulation

Stretches and strengthens the lower back

Improves balance

Boosts energy

Improves proprioception (perception of body in space)

Contraindications

Hip, ankle, or knee joints, feet, arms, and shoulders injury

Migraine

Vertigo

Pregnancy

Photo poses in different angles

Modifications, Props and Tips

Take your time. As with any balancing pose, it’s often easier to come into the pose slowly and with awareness. If you enter the pose quickly, you are more likely to lose your balance, which makes it more difficult to re-gain your balance once it’s been lost.
For Balance Difficulties – You can use a chair or a wall to support yourself and regain balance.