7. Relieve All Kinds of Aches
This upside-down position has been shown to help with pain not just in your legs and feet, but also in your lower back, and even your knee and hip joints. And get this – it might even help with migraines! Doing it at night can help you wind down and sleep better, making it a perfect way to end your day. Doing it in the morning can give your whole body a boost. Try it both times and see how much better you feel in just a few days.
Making the Most of Your “Legs Up The Wall” Practice
To get the best out of this simple pose, here are five things you should keep in mind:
Start with Support: If keeping your legs straight up is tough at first, it’s totally fine to bend your knees a bit. You can also put a pillow under your backside or lower back for more comfort. If you can’t get to a wall, just lie in bed and prop your legs up on a pillow so they’re higher than your heart. The main thing is to be comfortable.
Relax Your Muscles: While you’re in the pose, try to let go of any tension in your neck, shoulders, arms, and back. You shouldn’t be straining or feeling any pain. If you do, it means you’re probably holding tension or doing it wrong. The whole point is to relax your body and mind. Also, make sure you’re not wearing any tight clothes around your waist, like tight leggings or belts, as this can block blood flow.
Breathe Deeply: Focus on taking slow, deep breaths in and out through your nose. This helps even more with getting the blood from your legs back to your heart, making the pose more effective.
Hold the Position: When you’re starting out, aim for 5 to 10 minutes a day. As you get more comfortable, you can work your way up to 20 or even 30 minutes to get the most benefits.
Listen to Your Body: If you feel any sharp pain or a lot of discomfort, gently come out of the pose. It’s always a good idea to talk to a doctor or a physical therapist if you’re unsure or if pain continues.
When Should You Lift Your Legs?
