Power of the Mind
Research has found mind-body approaches, such as relaxation, breathing, or guided imagery can help treat many health conditions.
Read An Introduction to the Power of the Mind
Why is the Power of the Mind Important?
Whole Health includes all of you—your mind and your body. This is because your mind affects your body, and your body affects your mind. This dance between the two can improve your health or make it worse. Your mind has power.
The resources offered here will help you learn about the role the power of the mind can play in improving your health and well-being.
Whole Health Handouts
Progressive Muscle Relaxation and Progressive Relaxation
VA Greater Los Angeles Healthcare System: Center of Innovation Tai Chi Program Overview and Testimonials
Learn how tai chi helps Veterans receive the care that helps achieve their goals.
Breathing, Stretching, Relaxation (BSR) Yoga
BSR Yoga is gentle and includes modifications for all levels of fitness and flexibility. This 10-minute exercise in BSR uses simple physical postures and breathing exercises to help participants feel a connection and balance between body and mind.
- Introduction to Meditation with Dr. Greg Serpa (5 mins.)
- Grounding Meditation (5 mins.)
- Mindfulness of Breathing Meditation (10 mins.)
- Mindfulness of Sounds Meditation (10 mins.)
- Compassionate Breathing Meditation (10 mins.)
- Loving Kindness Meditation (10 mins.)
- Body Scan Meditation (15 mins.)
- Body Scan with Loving Kindness Phrases (15 mins.)
- An Intro on Mindfulness and Using the Personal Health Inventory (22:16 mins.)
- Paced Breathing (7:15 mins.)
- Mental Muscle Relaxation (5:01 mins.)
- Mini Mental Vacation (7:39 mins.)
- For Clinicians - by Dr. Gaudet (8:09 mins.)
Note: VA Integrative Health Coordinating Center identifies the following resources as options for your consideration, but VA does not endorse them.
BioZen
This mobile app uses wireless sensors to show the user their physical level of relaxation.
EliteHRV
This app measures heart rate variability, the best non-invasive measure of the autonomic nervous system, the main controller of health and performance functions.
Chris Germer Meditations
Created by clinical psychologist and meditation practitioner Chris Germer, the meditations are intended to guide you through the first phase of mindful self-compassion training.
Health Journeys Guided Imagery Audio Library
The page streams a variety of brief, effective meditations by leading practitioners in the mind-body field. Find your favorites, listen regularly, and enjoy the benefits. Invite your family to use the page, too. It’s available 24/7 and free.
Military Meditation Coach App/Podcast
Learn and practice meditation techniques for the military and Veteran community during this mindfulness podcast.
Meditation Oasis Podcasts
You can listen to these podcasts on iTunes, Google Play, or using the displayed play buttons.
VA Mental Health Services
Provides information on the variety of mental health services VA offers nationally and locally.
Manage Stress: VA National Center for Health Promotion and Disease Prevention
Includes exercises related to breathing, meditation, and progressive relaxation.
VA National Center for PTSD
Find out about care near you and self-help resources for managing PTSD symptoms.
PTSD Coach Online
Videos and worksheets on changing your thoughts to improve your health.
AboutFace
Veterans, family members, and clinicians share experiences with PTSD and treatment.
