Viparīta Karanī

Viparīta Karanī (विपरीत करणी) is an inverted yoga posture in which the legs are raised vertically against a wall, with the torso remaining horizontal on the floor. It is described in the Hatha Yoga Pradīpikā as one of the six mudrās and is widely practiced for its restorative and energizing effects.

Overview

Viparīta Karanī literally means “the action of inversion” or “the reversal process.” The practice is described in the Hatha Yoga Pradīpikā (3.80–3.82) as a method to prevent aging, stimulate the digestive fire, and redirect the flow of prāṇa upward. In modern yoga, it is known as “Legs Up the Wall” and is widely practiced as a restorative posture. The practice is considered gentle enough for beginners while still offering profound benefits for advanced practitioners.

Method

The practitioner sits sideways against a wall, then swings the legs up the wall while lowering the torso to the floor. The buttocks are placed as close to the wall as comfortable, and the legs rest vertically against the wall. The arms rest at the sides or overhead, and the practitioner relaxes into the posture for 5–20 minutes. In the traditional form described in the Hatha Yoga Pradīpikā, the practice involves specific bandhas and breath retention, but the modern restorative version is simpler.

Benefits and Purpose

Traditional texts claim Viparīta Karanī:

• Prevents aging and promotes longevity
• Stimulates the digestive fire
• Redirects prāṇa upward through the suṣumnā
• Relieves fatigue and refreshes the body
• Is one of the six essential mudrās

Verification Notes

• Described in the Hatha Yoga Pradīpikā (3.80–3.82).
• Widely taught in modern yoga as a restorative posture.
• Audited against Wikipedia (September 2026).