PRACTICEPURPOSE
This is a great stress-relieving position. Legs up the Wall is an
effective stretch for your hamstrings. You can also use it in
meditation or for a final resting pose in place of Savasana.
INSTRUCTIONS
Bring your mat to the wall. Sit next to the wall so that your
right hip is pretty close to it and your legs run parallel to the
wall. Lean back into your hands so that you can bend your
knees and lift your legs up the wall. Lie on your back and
straighten your legs up the wall to create an “L” shape with
your body. Move your sit bones as close to the wall as possi-
ble. Now relax your legs, close your eyes, and breathe deeply.
Hold for at least two minutes.
VARIATION #1
To deepen the pose and stretch your inner thighs and ham-
strings, allow your legs to drift apart from each other and
slide down the wall, opening your legs into a “V” shape.
VARIATION #2
To stretch your hips and lower back in this pose, bring the
soles of your feet together and press your knees toward the
wall. The shape of your legs should look exactly how they
looked in Bound Angle pose when you were seated.
Hold each of these variations for at least five breaths.
If you’re looking for a more restorative version of this
pose to help you relax, try placing a blanket or a bolster under
your hips while your legs are straight up the wall. Hold for at
least two minutes.