Yoga and Progressive Muscle Relaxation for Mental Wellness
Yoga and relaxation exercises are excellent tools to reduce stress, improve mood, and support mental health. Practicing these techniques regularly can complement therapy, whether you’re using online anxiety counseling Texas, online trauma therapist Texas, or telehealth grief counseling.
Why Yoga Helps
Yoga and muscle relaxation work by activating the parasympathetic nervous system—the part of your nervous system responsible for rest, relaxation, and digestion. This helps lower stress hormones, reduce anxiety, and improve emotional regulation. Research shows combining movement with mindful breathing improves both physical and mental health, making it a great adjunct to therapy.
Calming and Easy Yoga Poses
Bunny Breath Pose
Focused breathing is key to yoga. Bunny breath helps you feel relaxed and alert:
Kneel on your knees and place your hands on your thighs. Keep your back straight.
Tuck your chin slightly and relax your jaw.
Twitch your nose like a bunny while taking 4-6 short, quick breaths through your nose.
Exhale slowly through your mouth with a long, smooth sigh.
Gradually increase inhalations and exhalation length as your practice grows.
Gorilla Swing Pose
This playful pose improves strength and flexibility:
Squat with hands on the ground in front of you.
Lift your hips and lower your head, looking through your legs.
Swing your arms from side to side while maintaining balance.
Cat Stretch Pose
Stretching your back and spine supports flexibility and balance:
Get on all fours, hands under shoulders, knees under hips.
Lift your belly and arch your back like a cat stretching.
Take deep, mindful breaths as you move through the pose.
Ending Your Practice
Finish with relaxation to maximize the benefits:
Lie on your back comfortably and close your eyes.
Focus on your breath moving in and out.
Stay still and allow your body to fully relax.
Imagine a peaceful scene, like a garden with butterflies and birds, to enhance mindfulness.
Incorporating Mindfulness into Therapy
Using yoga and relaxation techniques alongside professional support can help with virtual therapy that takes insurance Texas, evening online therapy Texas, and weekend virtual counseling San Antonio. These practices strengthen emotional resilience, support a growth mindset, and improve your response to stress. If you’re seeking online therapy for women Texas, telehealth therapist Texas, or an online therapist near me, combining therapeutic techniques with mindfulness and movement can be highly effective.
Take the first step toward better mental health today. Call us at 210.705.1749 or fill out a contact card online at www.anscounseling.com to schedule your session and explore virtual depression therapy San Antonio, online anxiety counseling Texas, and other supportive services.