Modified Shoulder Stand (Floor)

Often called the pose of two waterfalls, this restorative posture gives the veins in the legs a rest and supports the return of blood to the heart. With the body supported, blood pools first in the abdomen and low back, then gently rises toward the neck, carrying nourishment and balance throughout the body. This cascade of energy signals to the heart and nervous system that it is safe to rest, lowering heart rate and blood pressure while easing the whole system into calm.

The pose also brings balance to the thyroid gland, supports the lymphatic system, and relieves tension in the low back. It is deeply restorative for both the heart and the nervous system, quieting the mind and creating space for deep renewal. Even in the chair version, where the legs are not lifted above the heart, the posture still supports venous return, allowing the body to relax and settle. With the chin gently lowered, the nervous system receives a powerful signal to shift from fight-or-flight into rest-and-digest, awakening the body’s innate relaxation response.

Benefits: Lowers blood pressure and heart rate, drains the lymphatic system, relieves varicose veins, supports thyroid balance, alleviates low back discomfort, improves circulation to the brain, and quiets the nervous system.

Variation: If there is discomfort in the head with both legs up, try resting one leg on the chair at a time.

Contraindications: For conditions such as diabetes with retinopathy, detached retina, certain eye diseases, history of stroke, menstruation, GERD, hiatal hernia, spinal arthritis, labile hypertension, or carotid stenosis, practice the chair version instead of lying on the floor.