04/23/2026
Legs up the Wall is a gentle restorative pose used in yoga, somatic therapy and nervous system regulation practices.
This pose activates the parasympathetic nervous system (your rest and digest state).
It stimulates the vagus nerve, helping regulate anxiety, emotional overwhelm and stress.
It gently reduces heart rate and blood pressure.
It supports lymphatic drainage and improves circulation, especially in the lower body.
How to do it:
1. Find a clear wall and a yoga mat, towel or blanket for comfort.
2. Sit sideways against a wall with one hip touching it.
3. Gently move your legs up the wall as you lower your back to the floor.
4. Adjust your sitting bones as close to the wall as is comfortable. If you are new to this pose it is okay to start further away from the wall. If you have tight hamstrings you can keep a slight bend in the knee.
5. Let your arms rest by your sides with your palms up.
6. Close your eyes, breathe slowly, and maintain the pose for 5-15 minutes. If that timeframe feels too long, move out of this position when it feels right for you.
7. To come out, bend your knees and gently roll to one side. Rest for a few breaths before sitting up.
Bonus points if you find a cute sidekick to join you 🫶