Legs up the wall — the easiest way to relax and replenish, even with the kids running around. My heart rate and blood pressure immediately lower whenever I get into position, and I can just feel the tension melt away.

If you’re looking for a quick and easy way to de-stress and relax, you may want to try legs up the wall. This simple yet effective restorative yoga pose can help you reset your body and mind, and the best part is that it is totally free! Studies have found that legs up the wall can help reduce stress, reduce lower back pain, and even help to regulate hormones.

In this article, you’ll learn the specifics of how to perform the pose, discover the many health benefits of legs up the wall, and explore ways to modify the pose to accommodate your specific needs. So if you’re ready to learn the power of legs up the wall and welcome relaxation into your life, keep reading!

Best Legs-Up-The-Wall Techniques

This position originates from a yoga pose called Viparita Karan. I love restorative yoga and practice it regularly to strengthen my mind and heart. You can view instructions on how to perform the position on Healthline or Yoga Journal. But I’m just here to rave about its awesomeness.

Relaxation Modifications As a Mom

So how do I accomplish maximum relaxation with kids in tow? Easy, get them involved! Whenever I feel the tension rising, my blood pressure increasing, or just all-around stress, I yell “tunnel time” and the kids cheer and make a space on the floor for me to lie down. Then I get into legs-up-the-wall position, but leave enough space between my butt and the wall for the kids to climb through, like a tunnel. They are entertained for at least 5-10 minutes of solid running, jumping, giggling, etc.

And, no, I don’t get peace and quiet zen time, but I do get to give my heart a break and be mindful and peaceful for a few minutes while also being present in my kids play time. Note: only a few times have I been injured during this activity because a kid trips and falls on my face. Ha. But the benefits outweigh the risks.

Adapt Relaxation To Fit Your Lifestyle

From the ancients to modern-day yoga junkies, legs-up-the-wall can offer a calming respite for just about anyone. This restorative position is a powerful reminder that we need to unplug and tune into our bodies and minds to maintain our wellbeing. I’m a huge fan of this yoga pose and highly recommend that you try it yourself. It’s simple, it’s accessible, and the benefits are both deeply restorative and far-reaching. As the Sufi poet Rumi said, “The wound is the place where the Light enters you.” Let legs-up-the-wall be the remedy that you need to reconnect and nourish your inner light.

If someone were to ask me my favorite way to lower blood pressure quickly, this would be it. Try it, and let me know what you think!