> Jen Wren: If you click on 'variations' you will read as follows; Stretch your arms straight up toward the ceiling, parallel to each other, palms facing, or touch the palms together forming an inverted V with the arms.
;)

My first time trying yoga. I think my branch kept sliding down the trunk..... I will get stronger! ha ha!!

this helps with some of my kamasutra positions

I have a question, in the poses that are contradicted for high blood pressure, it there anything written that explains why there is a contradiction for each pose? Thanks

Hi Amy, The knee is never "locked", but it should feel strong. Draw up the knee cap my contracting the quadriceps. As you "lift" the thigh muscles press down into the mat with the foot. That should create a feeling of being grounded.
Woodbdg, you can try simpler version of the pose. While standing on the Rt foot, just place the heel of the left foot on the inside of the RT ankle, turn the RT leg out to the side and place the RT toes on the ground, like a "kick stand" on a bike. Remember that the more you struggle with the pose, the more tension you create in the body and any balance pose is hard when you are fighting with it. Try to relax. Think about being Strong, stable and in control. Soften your gaze, let go the tension around your eyes and jaw. Have fun with it.
Good Luck Sandy :)