Are you looking for a simple way to de-stress and calm your mind? I want to share with you my all-time favorite stress-relieving yoga pose:

Legs Up The Wall Pose

The legs up the wall pose is exactly as it sounds: Your torso and head lie flat on the ground while your legs are inverted up a wall. It's a very simple yet amazingly relaxing pose. If you want, you can put a folded blanket underneath your pelvis.

Benefits of legs up the wall pose

This pose is a magical relaxant. It is also great for improving circulation in your legs. After a long flight or a long drive, I hang out in the legs up the wall pose for 5-20 minutes as soon as I arrive home. I instantly feel relaxed, my legs feel lighter, and I can continue with my day.

How to do the legs up the wall pose

Sit sideways with your right side against the wall. Then exhale and gently swing your legs -- like a mermaid tail -- up the wall. Slowly lower your shoulders and head down onto the floor. Your arms can rest on your belly or on the floor.

Your sit bones don't need to be right up against the wall. This pose is not intended to stretch the backs of your legs. If you feel pulling in the hamstrings, move farther from the wall.

To help you relax once you are in this physical position, you might want to add a calming breath exercise. Inhale deeply for four counts, then exhale for six counts. Longer exhalations slow your heart rate and calm your nervous system. Repeat five times, and then breathe naturally.

You can stay in this legs up the wall pose for 5 to 20 minutes. If you are not used to restorative yoga, which this pose is part of, even 5 minutes might feel like a long time. That’s fine. Over time, you will be able to stay longer.

Give this simple pose a try and let me know how you like it!

Best,
Christine

P.S. Did you know that yoga is a wonderful tool to reduce your stress? Enter your name and email address to download your FREE Starter Guide to Yoga for 45+:

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