Chill Out On The Dog Days of Summer With Some Restorative Yoga

Viparita Karani or Legs Up the Wall

This is one of my favorite restorative poses. I practice it when I feel stressed, scattered or tired or when I just need an afternoon pick-me-up. I favor it instead of a nap. I also practice this after long bike rides or runs. Putting your legs up the wall, relaxes the body and mind by releasing stress and tension. It also relaxes the legs and hips and stretches the hamstrings. When I get up I feel energized and renewed.

If you wish to make it into an inversion, lift your hips and place a rolled blanket, a cushion or a block beneath your sacrum, with a slight forward tip of the pelvis. This allows for the natural curve of your lumbar. Place your arms in cactus or alongside your body. Then, place a rolled up face towel or an eye pillow over your eyes. Set a timer for 5 to 15 minutes and make sure that you are warm and that you won’t be disturbed. This is better than caffeine. Try it!