A yogic technique for anxiety and sleep in COVID-19 patients

Progressive muscle relaxation is a meditative technique you might find in a yoga therapy session. This randomized controlled trial showed reduced anxiety and improved sleep quality in COVID-19 patients who were taught to perform progressive relaxation in combination with deep breathing, another method often used in therapeutic yoga.

As with other yoga therapy tools, deliberate relaxation and breathwork are self-directed methods for promoting well-being. An IAYT-certified yoga therapist would tailor the tool to the individual and modify the therapeutic plan over time, but clients learn the technique and apply it to their own situations—yoga therapy clients become empowered to care for their own wellness.