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Legs Up the Wall
Viparita Karani — A deeply restful pose that can relieve tired legs and help you wind down before sleep.
How to do it
Sit side-on to a wall, then swing the legs up as you lie back, resting the legs against the wall with the arms relaxed.
Benefits
A deeply restful pose that can relieve tired legs and help you wind down before sleep.
Cautions
Ease off with glaucoma or uncontrolled high blood pressure. Come out slowly to avoid light-headedness.
Calories by time
Rough estimates for about a 70 kg adult — heavier bodies and harder effort burn more.
| Time | Approx. calories |
|---|---|
| 5 min | 8 kcal |
| 10 min | 15 kcal |
| 20 min | 30 kcal |
| 30 min | 45 kcal |
Related poses
Downward-Facing Dog
Lengthens the hamstrings, calves and spine, builds shoulder and arm strength, and gently energises by putting the head below the heart.
Mountain Pose
The foundation for all standing poses. Improves posture, balance and body awareness, and steadies the breath.
Child's Pose
A resting pose that gently stretches the back and hips and calms the nervous system. A good place to pause during any practice.
Corpse Pose
The final rest of most practices. Lets the body absorb the work and settles the nervous system.
Source: Pose guidance paraphrases widely-taught yoga instruction; calorie estimates are approximate. · checked 2026-09-04
Frequently asked questions
What are the benefits of Legs Up the Wall?
A deeply restful pose that can relieve tired legs and help you wind down before sleep.
Who should be careful with Legs Up the Wall?
Ease off with glaucoma or uncontrolled high blood pressure. Come out slowly to avoid light-headedness.
How many calories does Legs Up the Wall burn?
Roughly 1.5 calories a minute for about a 70 kg adult, so around 15 in a ten-minute hold or repetition. Effort and body weight change this a lot.
Track your practice
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