Love Your Legs
/We stand, we walk, we run, we climb. we dance !
So let's take a moment to be grateful for our legs, hips and pelvis for their wonderfull functioning and support in allowing us such mobility and range of activity.
Here's a therapeutic posture to help keep your legs nourished, healthy and is superbly relaxing – LEGS UP THE WALL.
It's so simple to do....
Find a wall space, sit sideways against the wall then extend both legs up the wall. You need to have both sit bones gently pressing onto the skirting / wall. Check that your spine is as long and straight as possible and tuck the chin to lengthen the neck. You can use a slim cushion under the head for comfort and if you have a bolster, place it across you belly. An eye mask to shiled any light from the eyes can be a lovely addition to deepen your relaxation. Stay for a minimum of 15 mins.
The benefits ?
Reduces edema in the legs & feet
By reversing the effects of gravity, you can shift any stuck or stagnant fluids – useful if you have low blood pressure or spend a lot of time on your feet.
Relieves tired legs
Resting the legs upside down not only gives the muscles a rest but helps drain the tension from legs, feet and hips
It's an effortless inversion !
Legs up the wall give all the benefits inversions offer with very little effort so if you're tired or have little energy, it's perfect.
It's great for the nervous system
By combining conscious breathing with a longer hold, you access into your parasympathetic nervous system – 'rest & digest' which allows the body to do just that. You give your system a break from being active, busy and stimulated allowing the body to perform healing and repair
It's great for the mind
Being still and quiet provides an environment for the mind to relax, slow down and let go of busyness. Full concentration on the breath encourages a more meditative state of being. As the body relaxes as does the mind. As the legs are agaisnt a wall, this provided a psychological sense of safety and support.
A regular practice of this is also recommended for those with insomnia and lower back pain.
Go find a wall !