The Legs Up the Wall yoga pose, also known as Viparita Karani in Sanskrit, is a restorative yoga pose that involves lying on your back with your legs extended vertically up usually against a wall, but you can also do it without a wall.
What I love the most about practicing and teaching this inverted yoga pose is that it’s a gentle, accessible pose that is suitable for yogis of all levels, including beginners. It’s an excellent addition to a restorative yoga practice and can be used as a calming and rejuvenating posture at any time.
Using yoga blocks when practicing Legs Up The Wall yoga pose offers several benefits physical and mental benefits.
Here are 10 benefits of legs up the wall yoga pose:
1. Enhanced Comfort and Support
Yoga blocks can provide additional support for your lower back, making the pose more comfortable, especially for beginners or those with lower back issues.
2. Improved Circulation
This pose helps reverse the effects of gravity on the body, improving circulation to the upper body and head, which can be beneficial for reducing swelling in the legs and feet.
3. Reduced Stress and Anxiety:
The pose promotes relaxation and can help lower stress levels. It’s particularly beneficial for calming the mind, which can be helpful in managing anxiety.
4. Gentle Stretch
Elevating the legs helps to gently stretch the hamstrings and lower back. The use of blocks can enhance this stretch by providing a stable base to lift the hips slightly.
5. Lymphatic Drainage
Inverting the legs assists in lymphatic drainage, which can boost the immune system and help the body remove waste and toxins more efficiently.
6. Relief from Lower Back Pain
By using blocks under the sacrum, you can create a mild backbend, which can help relieve tension in the lower back.
7. Improved Digestion
This pose can aid in digestion by gently massaging the abdominal organs, which can help relieve problems like bloating.
8. Better Sleep
Practicing Legs Up the Wall pose can lead to better sleep due to its calming effect on the nervous system.
9. Flexibility for Varied Body Types
Yoga blocks can be adjusted for height and position, making this pose more accessible and comfortable for people of various body types and flexibility levels.
10. Helps with Menstrual Discomfort
This pose can also alleviate menstrual cramps and discomfort.
Remember, while yoga poses like Legs Up the Wall are generally safe, they might not be suitable for everyone. It’s advisable to consult with a healthcare provider or a qualified yoga instructor, especially if you have any health concerns or are new to yoga.
