LEGS UP THE WALL POSE

There are so many benefits of this restorative yoga pose including increased circulation, reduced swelling in the legs and ankles,  leg fatigue, low back pain, varicose veins, headaches, menstrual pain and a gentle stretch of the back and hamstrings.  The list goes on and on.  But one of its biggest benefits is deep relaxation and the affect it can have on reducing stress and anxiety.

Legs up the Wall can really be done anywhere and involves getting your sit bones as close to the wall as possible with your feet and legs in the air, but resting on the wall.  The back, neck and head lay restfully on the mat or floor.  It can be nice to elevate your hips gently by placing a folded blanket under your hips and sacrum, but this is not necessary.  Please also feel free to add blankets under your head and neck or any other variation that allows you to completely relax

Once you are in the position, a round of calming breaths may help you sink into a deeply relaxing state and assist you in calming the mind.  Try extending your exhale by breathing in for a count of 4 and out for a count of 6-8.  After 10- 20 breaths allow yourself to drift off into your own inner world where the calmness dwells. Remind yourself that there is no place to be and nothing to achieve.  I am resting is a nice mantra to recite in your head.  It is beneficial to stay in the posture at least 5 minutes and up to 20 minutes but always follow your bodies lead.

In general, restorative yoga asks you to completely let go and “BE”.  We are a society of doers and achievers and feel successful when all of the items are checked off the list.  However, constant “doing” can lead us into a state of stress, which takes a toll on the body over time. Our bodies are designed to function optimally only after we have rested.  Although it can seem paradoxical, the more time we take to BE the more we can DO.

Are you able to be open to what happens when you let yourself rest?