Legs Up the Wall

Instructions

1. 1Sit sideways with one hip close to the wall, then swing your legs up as you lower your back to the floor.
2. 2Adjust your position so your sitting bones are as close to the wall as is comfortable, with legs resting vertically.
3. 3Extend your arms out to the sides or rest them on your belly, palms facing up.
4. 4Let your lower back soften into the floor and release any tension in your legs and feet.
5. 5Close your eyes and breathe naturally, allowing gravity to gently drain fluid from the legs.
6. 6Stay for 5 to 15 minutes, then bend your knees and roll to one side before rising slowly.

Contraindications & precautions

• ⚠Serious eye conditions such as glaucoma or detached retina — mild inversion can increase intraocular pressure and worsen the condition.
• ⚠Active herniated disc or severe lower back injury — lying with legs elevated can aggravate disc compression in some individuals.
• ⚠Late-stage pregnancy — lying flat on the back for extended periods can compress the vena cava and reduce circulation to the uterus.