The Importance of Rest and Relaxation for Mental Health
By: Samantha Maloney, AACC, RYT-200 Certified Yoga Teacher
At Bass Educational Services, we have spent years working with neurodiverse students, each with their unique challenges and triumphs. A common theme we often encountered in the past was boredom. For some, it stemmed from a lack of challenge in their schoolwork, while for others, it was frustration with a curriculum that didn’t engage them.
Today, however, we are noticing a shift. More and more of the students and families we support are grappling with anxiety. Over half of our clients report having an anxiety diagnosis or experiencing anxiety in some form, whether related to academics, social pressures, or life beyond the classroom. This shift has underscored a growing need for mental health support—particularly the importance of rest and balance to prevent burnout.
In recognition of this, we are taking intentional steps to prioritize rest for ourselves and encourage it for those we serve. Our office will be closed from December 16th to January 6th, providing our team the opportunity to pause, recharge, and enter the new year refreshed. We hope you will do the same and use this time to focus on your mental well-being.
The Role of Restorative Yoga in Easing Anxiety
One powerful tool for managing anxiety and promoting relaxation is restorative yoga. This practice is designed to help your body and mind unwind, relieving tension and stress through gentle, supported poses held for longer periods. Unlike more vigorous yoga styles, restorative yoga focuses on deep relaxation, making it ideal for anyone—whether you’re new to yoga or simply seeking calm amidst life’s busyness.
Here are three of the most effective restorative yoga poses for releasing tension and encouraging deeper rest:
Child’s Pose (Balasana)
This comforting pose gently stretches the lower back and hips while calming the mind. Begin by kneeling on the floor, then sit back onto your heels, extending your arms forward and lowering your torso. Rest your forehead on the mat, allowing your body to soften.
Reclining Bound Angle Pose (Reclining Butterfly–Supta Baddha Konasana)
This pose opens the chest, hips, and groin, promoting relaxation. Lie on your back with the soles of your feet together, knees gently falling open. Use cushions or blankets under your knees for support, and let your arms rest comfortably at your sides.
Legs-Up-the-Wall Pose (Viparita Karani)
This simple yet effective pose helps reduce swelling in the legs and feet while calming the nervous system. Sit sideways against a wall, then swing your legs up as you lie back on the floor. Adjust yourself so your legs are vertical against the wall, and use a folded blanket under your hips for extra comfort.
Practicing these poses regularly can help create a sense of calm and balance, making it easier to manage feelings of overwhelm.
Taking Time to Recharge
As the year winds down, we encourage you to carve out moments for yourself to rest, reflect, and recharge. Whether it’s through restorative yoga, spending time with loved ones, or simply enjoying the quiet, prioritizing your mental health is one of the best gifts you can give yourself.
We’re here to support you on this journey. Let’s make 2025 a year of growth, balance, and wellness!