"Legs Up the Wall" Might Be the Most Underrated Wellness Relaxation Ritual

As someone who loves all things that help relax the mind and body, I’ve recently been making my home environment feel even more spa-like. Think cozy bookworm vibes with a wellness twist.

As you might imagine, I have a massage table right in my living room. It’s my go-to spot for stretching, exercises like the Bulgarian Split Squat, massage (of course), and one of my favorite new rituals: legs up on the wall, also known as Viparita Karani in yoga.

Nearby, you’ll find yoga, self-development, massage, stretching and exercise books, all beauitfully colorful and neatly arranged on a bookshelf or tucked into pretty farmhouse baskets. Candles, fake and real ones, are everywhere. I love cozy lighting. The ambiance calms my nervous system. (When you visit me at the A Knead for Wellness space, you'll also enjoy this type of ambiance).

Legs up on the wall is something I’ve recently added to my daily chill rituals. It’s the perfect time to breathe in essential oils, listen to calming music, and sometimes read too, all at once. It is absolutely, utterly relaxing.

My massage table sits perfectly against the wall. I slip on some cozy socks, flick on (or light) the candles, kick my legs up, and settle into the most zen-full state of bliss.

I bet you’re wondering if there are real benefits to throwing your legs up a wall, besides how relaxing I’m telling you it feels.

Glad you asked!

Here is why it’s powerfully beneficial, especially if you, like me, are on your feet a lot or just need a mental reset:

1. Reduces Swelling & Improves Circulation. Helps drain fluid from your feet and legs. Can relieve that heavy, achy feeling from standing or walking all day. It’s also a gentle way to support lymphatic flow.

2. Eases Lower Back Tension. It relieves pressure from the spine. It’s especially helpful in this way if you’ve been sitting or standing for too long.

3. Calms the nervous system. It encourages parasympathetic activation (“rest and digest” mode) and helps lower cortisol, calming anxious thoughts.

4. Improves Sleep. It’s a great relaxation ritual to do before bed. It helps the mind and body shift into a peaceful state. Even 5-10 minutes can help.

5. Aids Digestion. By relaxing the abdominal muscles and encouraging deeper breathing, it can help with bloating or discomfort.

6. Supports Hormonal Balance. It can indirectly support more balanced hormone production due to the relaxation component.

How to do it:

1. Lie on your back near a wall.

2. Scoot your hips as close to the wall as comfy.

3. Extend your legs up so they rest gently on the wall.

4. Let your arms relax by your sides, on your belly or read a book like I do.

5. If you’re not a relaxation multi-tasker and choose not to read, close your eyes and breathe deeply into a cotton ball with your favorite essential oil or, just breathe the clean air.

   
   

If you've ben curious about trying "legs up the wall", I highly recommend trying it before bed or after a long day. It's a great addition to your monthly restorative massage.

Enjoy!!