This is a favourite Yoga pose and one I love to share with clients. It helps to restore inner calm and help you sleep well. It is called: Legs Up The Wall.
How to Begin:
- Begin this restorative pose by sitting with one side of your body against the wall.
- Gently turn your body and bring your legs up the wall.
- Lower your back to the floor and lie down. (Try not to bring your body to a full 90 degree angle as this can restrict circulation in the hip area.)
Notes:
- You may need a small pillow or bolster under your low back to begin with.
- When adjusting your body as you settle into this pose, please bend the legs at the knees – this keeps your neck vertebrae safe.
- How long do you hold this pose? Anywhere from 5-20 minutes.
The Benefits:
- Lowers anxiety, stress and allows the heart rate to decrease as you relax.
- Your nervous system gets a chance to calm down from stressors of the day.
- Relaxes you and helps you focus on your breath and inner awareness before you go to bed at night.
- Increases circulation in your legs, especially if you have been sitting at a desk or standing for long periods of time.
- Relieves low back tension – the pressure is released in this position.
- Stretches hamstrings and low back – the angle of the body reduces the curve of your lumbar spine. (Often from being in an awkward position at our desk or while driving in a car / truck.)
- Helps reduce chronic pain. (This is great for symptoms of fibromyalgia.)
- Stabilizes digestive and elimination systems.