What is Viparita Karani?
Viparita Karani, commonly known as the
Legs Up the Wall Pose, is a restorative yoga pose that involves lying on your back with your legs extended vertically against a wall. This pose is often used for relaxation and
stress relief, offering a gentle inversion that can help improve circulation and provide a sense of calm.
Benefits of Viparita Karani for Cancer Patients
For individuals battling
cancer, Viparita Karani can offer several benefits:
Improved Circulation: This pose helps to increase blood flow to the upper body, which can be beneficial for those experiencing
chemotherapy-induced neuropathy.
Stress Reduction: Cancer treatment can be highly stressful. Viparita Karani promotes relaxation and can reduce
anxiety and stress levels.
Alleviating Fatigue: Fatigue is a common side effect of cancer treatment. This pose can help combat fatigue by allowing the body to rest and recover.
Lymphatic Drainage: By inverting the legs, this pose can facilitate the drainage of lymphatic fluid, which can be particularly beneficial for those experiencing lymphedema.
Find a clear wall space and place a folded blanket or yoga mat against it.
Sit with one side of your body touching the wall.
Lie back and swing your legs up onto the wall as you lower your head and shoulders to the floor.
Adjust your position so that your body forms an L-shape, with your legs resting comfortably against the wall.
Rest your arms at your sides, palms facing up, and close your eyes.
Breathe deeply and hold the position for 5-15 minutes.
Precautions and Contraindications
While Viparita Karani is generally considered safe, there are some precautions cancer patients should keep in mind: Consult Your Doctor: Always consult with your healthcare provider before starting any new exercise or yoga routine, especially if you are undergoing treatment.
Avoid If You Have Certain Conditions: If you have glaucoma, high blood pressure, or severe back problems, this pose may not be suitable for you.
Use Props: If you find it difficult to get into the pose or if it causes discomfort, use props such as bolsters or pillows for added support.
Listen to Your Body: If at any point you feel pain or discomfort, come out of the pose and rest.
Scientific Evidence
While anecdotal evidence supports the benefits of Viparita Karani for cancer patients, scientific research is still limited. However, studies have shown that
yoga can improve quality of life and reduce symptoms such as fatigue, stress, and anxiety in cancer patients. More research is needed to specifically understand the effects of Viparita Karani in this context.
Conclusion
Viparita Karani is a gentle, restorative yoga pose that can offer several benefits for cancer patients, including improved circulation, stress reduction, and alleviation of fatigue. Always consult with your healthcare provider before incorporating this or any new exercise into your routine, and listen to your body to ensure a safe and beneficial practice.
