2) Legs-Up-the-Wall Pose (Viparita Karani)
Legs-Up-the-Wall Pose, also known as Viparita Karani, is a rejuvenating yoga pose that offers numerous benefits for the body and mind. Here’s how to practice it:
- Find a clear wall space and sit sideways next to it, with one hip touching the wall.
- Gently swing your legs up onto the wall as you lower your upper body onto the floor. The closest comfortable distance for your sitting bones should be with the wall.
- Adjust your body so that your legs are straight up the wall, and your back is resting comfortably on the floor.
- Your arms can be placed by your sides with palms facing up, or you can rest them on your abdomen or extend them out to the sides in a “T” shape, whatever feels most comfortable.
- Close your eyes and relax your entire body. Allow your breath to become natural and effortless.
- Stay in this pose for 5 to 15 minutes, or as long as feels comfortable and beneficial.
- To release the pose, gently bend your knees and roll to one side before coming back to a seated position.
Legs-Up-the-Wall Pose helps to promote relaxation, reduce stress and anxiety, improve circulation, and relieve tired or cramped legs. It’s an excellent pose for unwinding after a long day or as part of a restorative yoga practice.
