LEGS UP THE WALL

With lockdowns this past year I guess we have all moved in different ways to what we used to!? There has been more steps per day for most, and many have started a new movement practice as gyms and sports centres have been closed and group activities cancelled. Personally I have moved more than usual with teaching yoga on zoom, doing longer walks with my dog and also longer walks in order to meet up with friends! I realise it is high time to bring space for recovery into my daily practice to keep the body continue feeling well.

That is the reason why I have started lying with legs up the wall. The pose is called Viparita Karani in Sanskrit. I got into it about ten days ago and it has quickly become something I feel is important to do to care for my body and energy. You will find me lying this way after a long walk or yoga practice, after strenuous exercise, or simply before going to bed. It is an excellent position to allow for recovery on a daily basis. By the way, no need to wait to have moved to come into the posture. Starting your day with legs up the wall will feel great too.

There are multiple benefits with lying with legs up the wall, such increased circulation flow in the body, calmness in the mind and a feeling of overall relaxation. During a Yoga for Sports workshop I remember the teacher say that staying in this posture is as beneficial for the body after exercise as taking an ice bath!

I usually stay lying this way for twenty minutes. After ten days doing this consistently here is how I feel it is working for me:

  • I am bringing a sensation of heaviness away from my legs
  • It feels caring and nourishing
  • Knowing I am taking time to care of my body makes me feel good
  • This is a pause in my day that is 100% about self-care
  • Coming out of the posture I feel refreshed, light and relaxed

Maybe all the points above are just different ways of saying this posture is really amazing! So, how about bringing your legs up the wall too and see how it feels for you? It is a pose that can do wonders for your whole being.

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Annette Wiik

My name is Annette. I am a Yoga Academy Certified Teacher (BWY-Accredited School) and started practising Hatha Yoga over 20 years ago. Holding a certificate from Bangor University to teach mindfulness-based courses, I incorporate my knowledge of mindfulness meditation in all my yoga classes. I have two grown-up children.