Challenge #6: A 5-Minute Trick to Relax and Recharge

The relaxing pose you didn't know you needed. Why you should try the legs-up-the-wall pose today!

I’m not sure if that title scared you away or enticed you to want to know more. I hope it’s the latter.

I used to practice this challenge regularly but fell out of routine until recently—it involves lying with your legs up on a wall. I know it sounds wild, but there are many health benefits to relaxing in this pose for 5-10 minutes daily.

Want to join in the challenge? Join us over in the chat!

Why Try the Legs-Up-the-Wall Pose?

This inversion pose—where your legs rest vertically against a wall—does more than just feel good. It helps calm your nervous system, reduces tension in your neck and shoulders, and promotes overall relaxation. But that’s not all!

The pose also supports your lymphatic system, which plays a vital role in immune function and fluid balance. By encouraging healthy circulation and reducing swelling, this pose helps maintain the flow and movement your body needs to function at its best.

The lymphatic system—specifically, its health—became a huge focus during my healing phase. Even today, I am thoughtful about moving and supporting lymphatic drainage. In the coming months, you will notice numerous challenges devoted to lymphatic health.

Benefits of the Legs-Up-the-Wall Pose:

Here are some of the incredible benefits you might notice:

Stress and Relaxation:

• Reduces stress and anxiety

• Calms your mind

• Improves sleep quality

Physical Tension Relief:

• Relieves neck and shoulder tension

• Alleviates tired legs

• Reduces headaches

• Reduces PMS symptoms

• Creates balance in muscle tension

Circulation and Recovery:

• Boosts circulation

• Reduces swelling

• Supports lymphatic drainage

• Improves digestion

• Aids post-workout recovery

How to Do It

1. Place a blanket or yoga mat on the floor next to a wall.

2. Sit sideways against the wall, then pivot your body to lie on your back as you swing your legs up onto the wall.

3. Scoot your hips as close to the wall as is comfortable. Your legs should be extended upward with a slight bend in the knees.

4. Rest your arms by your sides or on your stomach, close your eyes, and focus on relaxing your body.

5. Hold the pose for 5-15 minutes.

Pro Tip:

Try doing this in bed, assuming your headboard allows you to elevate your feet above it. The mattress adds a little cushion to make it more comfortable than the floor.

Important Considerations:

This pose is generally safe, but it's always a good idea to listen to your body and stop if you feel pain or discomfort.

Before trying this pose, consult your doctor if you have any medical conditions, especially heart or blood circulation problems.

If you experience any pain or discomfort, stop the pose immediately.

Your Challenge

Try the legs-up-the-wall pose for five out of the next seven days and see how it makes you feel. Aim to hold the position for at least five minutes each time, and gradually increase to 15 minutes as it feels comfortable.

If you notice any changes in your stress levels, energy, or overall well-being, make sure you report back to fill us in on your experience! Also, drop me a note and let me know how this has impacted your body and mind.

P.S. The chat is a fun place to join in on these challenges with others, where you can share what you’re learning and what results you’re seeing with these challenges, click the button below to join in!