Yoga in the garden: Legs up the rock

This twist of the traditional yoga inversion “Legs up the Wall” is a great restorative pose for the gardener

On a recent hike in the Chilliwack mountains I took a moment to rest with a twist of the traditional yoga inversion “Legs up the Wall.”

This pose helps to gently stretch the back of the legs, extending the hamstrings, all the while taking all the pressure off the legs and relieving sore and swollen ankles, calves and toes.

The inversion helps get the lymph in the legs moving and restores the blood to the heart, lungs and brain—all wonderful support mechanisms for the circulatory, respiratory and immune systems.

When gardening you can start your day and end your day with a few minutes in this pose.

It’s easy to do: simply locate a nice garden-shed wall, straight tree or, as I did, large boulder and use it to support your legs while you lie inverted. Breathe slowly and rest, or take the opportunity to gently massage your temples, jaw and scalp. Stay for a few minutes, finding some movement with your toes, a gentle point-and-relax rhythm will suffice. If your feet fall asleep or tingle, it’s time to release from the pose: simply bend your knees, lower your legs towards your chest and roll to the right. Lay for a moment until you feel comfortable returning to a sitting or standing position.