Viparita Karani | Inverted in Action

Viparita Karani is often called 'Legs up the Wall Posture.' But the posture actually translates as; Viparita - Inverted and Karani - In action. This actually means that it inverts the typical action in our bodies when we sit or stand.

Then benefits of this posture are huge. It relieves tired, aching legs and swollen ankles. It can alleviate headaches, relieves lower back pain and improves energy. It's a great boost for circulation into the upper body, which helps to rebalance you after you've been sitting or standing for a long time. It also teaches us that sometimes doing less not more is what our bodies need.

Those days when you don't have the energy for a full yoga practice, it's a lovely restorative practice which is almost effortless, and doesn't have to be done on a yoga mat.

As a sufferer of varicose veins, my legs often feel heavy and achey, so I lie in bed reading with my legs up resting on the headboard to get that lovely downward drainage.

You can place a folded blanket, bolster or cushions under the hips if you like, or just rest on your mat. To come into the posture sit side on to the wall (see second picture) and swing your legs upwards, so you are close to the wall so there's no strain on your lower back or legs.

Give it a go, and let me know how you get on. The dog is optional of course :) Lola likes to join in my yoga practice whenever she gets a chance.