Restorative Pose
Photography: Jillian Clark
Words by:
Charman Driver
My energy reserves are at their lowest level in the evenings. When I’m exhausted, but have social obligations to meet, “legs-up-the-wall” is my go-to restorative pose that gets me rejuvenated before heading out.
This is one of the best self-maintenance tools in my kit. For me legs-up-the-wall–pose promotes circulation and relieves stress and tension. After just 20 minutes, I feel like a new person. It’s a veritable magic pill that works wonders for my mood—no swallowing required. Try it (at any time of the day) when you’re feeling low.
Go deeper at Yoga Journal to learn more about the many restorative poses and their remarkable and unexpected benefits.
Legs-Up-The-Wall:
1. Sit on the floor near open wall space and gently swing your legs up the wall as you lie on your back.
2. Use a pillow or folded blanket under you head and low back if needed.
3. Adjust your position for your height and flexibility. Your bottom can be closer to the wall the more flexible you are. Play with the positioning until you find the placement that’s most supportive for you.
4. Close your eyes, relax into the pose, and breathe deeply.
5. Stay in the pose anywhere from 5-30 minutes. I usually set an alarm for 20 minutes.
6. To come out of the pose, bend your knees so that your feet are flat on the wall and then push away. Swing your legs to one side and sit up.