Winding down Celeste Barber style
The picture may look a little odd… however I can assure you it’s one of the most amazing ways to wind down!!
Vertical leg raising for 5-20mins is a Viprata Karani pose that has been used in yoga practices for thousands of years. It’s a restorative pose for reducing tension and relieving anxiety. The best part (other than the wiggling your bum into the wall - lol) is that it’s not strenuous or requires huge amounts of flexibility.
When should I be Raising my legs? If your…
mind is buzzing & you can’t switch off
overwhelmed
grumpy, irritated and not yourself
juggling the work life balance ball
if any of these are a yes for you, then get to it! Before bed or between meetings. Devote 5mins as a minimum to stretch and drain, while your nervous system takes a well earned rest. You will thank me!
My best Celeste Barber yoga interpretation enhances your immune system and stimulates the lymphatic system. When you’re under stress and tension, your immune system is challenged as the body depletes the naturally occurring microbiome that is responsible for 70% of your innate immunity.
Vertical legs raising for between 5-20mins increase circulation, drain tension from the legs, feet, and even the hips if you have them elevated; reducing swelling in the feet, ankles and calves . This posture is a deeply relaxing pose.
For people with sore backs use the aid of pillows. Not to be performed with uncontrolled high blood pressure and best not while menstruating.
Top 7 times to use this pose:
1. Relieve nervous tension
2. Menstrual cramping and pain prevention (not suggested whilst mensturating)
3. Headaches and muscular tension
4. Support sleep by restoring calm
5. Improves digestion
6. Enhances the immune system
7. Restores heavy tired legs and feet
So you don’t have to be an expert yogy to use this pose to your advantage. Take your time to work up from 5mins to 20mins.
Start on the floor with your bottom pressed against the wall and legs raised vertically. Have both arms stretched out wide, then close your eyes and let your hips sink into the floor whilst concentrating on your breath.
Whilst some people love a glass of wine, some iPhone scrolling and some couch ironing… I strongly suggest a combination of adaptagenic stress herbs, cup of camomile tea and a wall pose.