Viparita Karani : Inverted Leg Stretch

"Let go of past and future struggles. Experience your life in the present moment. There's nowhere else to be."

Here is the great mother of all restorative postures. It combines the benefits of corpse pose with the gifts of a gentle inversion. This posture promotes resting in the heart of loving kindness. It gently lengthens the hamstrings. The floor provides a valuable feedback loop allowing the spine to lengthen and stretch with maximum support. The sacrum is flattened to complete a graceful full-spinal extension while the lungs are freed to empty and fill with ease. Specially folded blankets may be used beneath the sacrum or under the length of the spine to enhance a deeper union with the breath.

Posture Points

  • Hands remain open to remind your heart to be open.
  • Spine gently "flattens" while preserving natural curves.
  • Perineum moves towards wall.
  • Heels gently lengthen to sky; tops of thighs spin gently inward.
  • Head rests gently on the floor with eyes closed.
  • Always maintain a calm and even breath.

Viparita Karani: Heels lengthening to sky with legs together.

Did you Know?
The gluteus muscles, quadriceps and hamstrings move massive amounts of blood as the largest muscle groups in the body. A restful inversion like Viparita Karani aids venous blood flow, relieves tension and "decompresses" cell membranes, allowing full relaxation of muscle fibers.

* Disclaimer
Hatha Yoga requires your complete attention. You are responsible for your own practice and knowing what is right for you in the present moment. It is a good idea to practice with the guidance of a teacher you trust before trying more challenging postures on your own.


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