In today's episode of the Alexis Anderson Podcast, Alexis is teaching us about the parasympathetic nervous system and how belly breathing and full-body relaxation techniques can activate this system to reduce stress, relieve tension, and promote overall well-being. Join in as she guides us through a calming practice to help relax, let go, and optimize our systems in the process.

For your safety: Please do not complete this practice while operating heavy machinery or on the go.

🎧 This episode has helpful visuals if you check it out on YouTube!

Welcome to The Alexis Anderson Podcast.

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If you liked this episode of the Alexis Anderson Podcast, tell your friends! Find us on iTunes,Spotify, and anywhere you listen to podcasts to rate/review/subscribe to the show.

Want more? Visit my website www.alexisandersondpt.com, and connect with me on Instagram (@alexisandersondpt). Thanks for listening and joining the conversation!

SHOW NOTES

1:04 – Alexis shares what is happening on the podcast today!

1:33 – Alexis defines the parasympathetic nervous system and its functions

2:47 – Alexis introduces belly breathing and its importance

4:27 – Alexis notes that learning to relax takes PRACTICE – and a safety reminder!

5:28 – Alexis suggests getting into a position where your body feels supported and you can relax

6:33 – Alexis leads us through a guided belly breathing and total relaxation practice

18:31 – Alexis brings the practice – and this episode – to a close

In today's very first episode of the Alexis Anderson Podcast, Alexis is talking with us all about the pelvic floor, its anatomy, and the importance of pelvic floor coordination. She explains the three layers of pelvic floor muscles, their functions, and how they contribute to urinary, bowel, and sexual health for people of all genders. The episode emphasized the significance of learning and practicing simple pelvic floor exercises for overall pelvic health AND to address common issues related to pelvic floor dysfunction.

🎧 PS - This episode has helpful visuals if you check it out on YouTube!

Welcome to The Alexis Anderson Podcast.

- - - - - - - - -

If you liked this episode of the Alexis Anderson Podcast, tell your friends! Find us on iTunes,Spotify, and anywhere you listen to podcasts to rate/review/subscribe to the show.

Want more? Visit my website www.alexisandersondpt.com, and connect with me on Instagram (@alexisandersondpt). Thanks for listening and joining the conversation!

SHOW NOTES

0:57 – A welcome and introduction to what we are talking about today!

1:21 – What IS the pelvic floor, what does it affect, and who has one? Alexis shares a visual model for our YouTube audience

5:37 – Alexis describes the pelvic floor’s role in sexual functions

SUBTRACT 15:05sec

8:45 – Alexis discusses the third and deepest layer, and reviews the pelvic floor anatomy with us

10:25 – Alexis details pelvic floor coordination and why it’s important

13:06 – Alexis leads us through a set of exercises to contract, relax, and elongate our pelvic floors

22:57 – Alexis shares some issues that pelvic floor coordination can remedy

26:32 – Alexis brings the episode to a close

Welcome to The Alexis Anderson Podcast — the place where we talk about the things no one wants to talk about… but absolutely need to. I’m your host, Alexis Anderson, pelvic health physiotherapist and guide for anyone navigating the messy, confusing, and often isolating world of pelvic and sexual health.

This season, we’re breaking down the myths, sharing real stories, and giving you evidence-informed, compassionate tools to understand your body and your pelvic floor. Whether you’re a patient looking for answers, a clinician wanting to better support your clients, or someone quietly struggling and unsure where to turn — you’re in the right place.

Let’s take the shame out of the conversation, bring clarity where there’s confusion, and make pelvic health feel human, hopeful, and actually talked about.

DISCLAIMER: While I am a physical therapist, I’m not YOUR personal PT so remember this content is educational only and not a substitute for personalized medical advice or treatment.