Life can often feel overwhelming, and plenty of people reach for some rather unhealthy coping mechanisms when it does. Whether that’s a glass of wine or some comfort food, it may leave you feeling worse in the long run. However, it doesn’t have to be so, with one yoga pose said to be even more relaxing than a nice bubble bath.
Yoga teacher Brett Larkin has shared a technique that can quickly and effectively calm you down: lying on your back with your legs resting against a wall. This position, known as Viparita Karani, helps support circulation, calm the nervous system, and lower your heart rate and blood pressure.
She explained: “People often think they need to commit to a full hour‑long yoga session to really feel the benefits, but actually, taking ten minutes out of your schedule each day to spend in a pose such as Viparita Karani is hugely beneficial.
“Whether you’re a busy mum who is running around all day, or someone who works from home and spends hours at a time scrunched over in front of a laptop, building that ten‑minute pose into your day can have huge benefits for both your body and your mind.
“This self‑care ritual is an automatic nervous system reset; it doesn’t cost anything, is easily accessible, and is still deeply calming.”
Lowers heart rate quickly
Viparita Karani is a perfect way to quickly lower your heart rate. Elevating your legs makes blood return to your heart, which helps regulate your cardiovascular system and reduce stress.
Sooths the nervous system
This gentle inversion will send a signal to the body, letting it know you are safe. This will activate the parasympathetic nervous system and melt away any tension.
Reduces swelling and fatigue
If you’ve been on your feet all day, whether you’re a busy mum chasing your children around or you work in hospitality, this pose eases that tired, heavy leg feeling and promotes lymphatic drainage.
Other benefits
Unlike with complex yoga routines, you can find online you won’t need any extra equipment for this. Plus it can done almost anywhere and by almost anyone, all you need is a wall and a few quiet minutes to yourself.
In order to do the pose you will need to get off your seat and move away from your laptop, this alone is hugely beneficial to those who work from home and may forget to take breaks.
Just taking a few minutes to pause, breathe, and gently move your body into a new position sends a powerful message to yourself that you are listening to your needs.