If you've never tried yoga, you probably aren't use to raising your legs.
Although it may seem strange to some people, it actually has several health benefits.
Raising you legs may seem like exercise, but it's actually a therapeutic technique.
In yoga, the position called Viparita Karani, commonly known as the “legs up the wall”
pose is quite easy, and anyone can do it at home.
This technique is normally performed in order to establish a connection between your mind
and body, but it can also help your circulation.
Here are some of its benefits:
It reduces water retention in your legs and feet
If your feet and legs swell, it might be due to circulation problems, but it's very important
to find out what is causing it.
In some cases it may be due to kidney problems, heart problems, excess weight, medication
or poor eating habits.
It's important for you to find out what is causing this problem, in order to treat it.
But if you're just looking for relief, raising your legs can help.
Whenever you perform this yoga position, it'll help move the liquids causing the swelling.
Relieves tired legs
Raising your legs is one of the best ways to get rid of tension in your legs, feet and
hips.
These three areas suffer a lot after a long day, and changing your position for 20 minutes
can bring great relief.
It improves digestion
Putting your legs up is an exercise known as “active inversion”.
Changing your position, and raising your legs above your head helps to loosen fluids and
even improves digestion.
Furthermore, it helps bowel movements, and will help us absorb more nutrients in the
long run, avoid constipation, and restore our health.
It relaxes our nervous system
Apart from everything else, this yoga position will improve your breathing: you'll retain
more air, and gradually breath in and out in a slower, more rhythmic way.
All of this can have a great impact on our nervous system.
We are relieving tensions in our muscles, above our stomachs, and in our sinuses.
It helps to relax our minds
Take 20 minutes of your time today to try this yoga pose.
The first thing you'll notice will be the physical relief you feel that will, in turn,
relax your mind.
This position also favors correct brain oxygenation.
It encourages us to meditate, rest our minds and be more conscious about our bodies.
Now that you know all about it's benefits, here's how to do it:
The ideal thing to do is place a small cushion in the curve of your back in order to ensure
a more balanced posture.
This will make sure that your legs are glued vertically to the wall, and your arms are
rested, stretched out, and relaxed.
Just hold this position for at least 15 to 20 minutes without doing anything else.
Feel the balance this pose offers you, the tranquility and relaxation you feel when your
chest and head have better circulation.
Don't forget to wear comfortable clothes that don't restrict your waist or ankles.
Otherwise, it could affect the whole purpose if this exercise: to promote blood circulation.
As you perform this yoga pose, you will notice more and more benefits.
If you have a back injury, you should not perform this exercise.