Viparita karani (legs up the wall) is one of my favorite restorative yoga poses. Once you get into the pose, just relax, let go and indulge for 5 minutes to as long as 20 minutes to restore and recharge your energy level.
Great for:
- jet lag
- boosts energy level
- circulation
- immune system
- reduces anxiety
- reduces stress level
- digestive system
- varicose veins
- rest for feet & heart (with bolster or pillow support)
- exhaustion
- mental break
Ways to enhance:
- bolster or bed pillows under the sacrum and lower back for added inversion effect
- eye pillow to quiet the mind
- notice any areas of tension as you are holding and soften and relax
- notice any thoughts that arise as an observer. Let go and come back to observing the natural rhythm of your breathing pattern.
- lion’s breath: sigh out the exhales through the mouth from time to time
- allow any emotions to arise. feel them to be released and healed.
- relaxing music if that helps to add sound healing. tibetan singing bowl is a good one.
- lavender oil to deepen the relaxation
- stay with legs straight up the whole time or do one or both of the leg variations
Leg variations:
- straight up legs together or hip distance. get as close to the wall as your hamstrings will allow
- open your legs wide and let go to gravity
- bring the soles of your feet together and slide the feet down allowing the knees to bend and release towards the wall
Indulge and enjoy this pose any time you need. Remember to honor your body and only go as far as you can to stay in the calm state.
Please share your experience in the comments below. Peace & love! Namaste!
