Yoga for School Children: Nurturing Holistic Well-being

 Yoga for School Children: Nurturing Holistic Well-being

''Yoga is a playful way for kids to explore their bodies, discover their breath, and connect with their inner calm.'' – Unknown

Introduction

Yoga is a healthy way of life, originated in the Indian region. Now, it is believed to be a form of science accepted all over the world. The Western culture is also accepting it as a healthy form of scientific exercise. Although the origin of yoga is obscure, it has a long tradition. According to Patanjali Yog Sutra, Yoga for a common person contains the practices of Yama (Principles or moral code), Niyama (Personal Disciplines), Asana (Yogic Postures), pranayama (Yogic Breathing), and Dhyana (Meditation) which are helpful to keep oneself physically fit, mentally alert, and emotionally balanced. This ultimately prepares the ground for the spiritual development of an individual.

The Significance of Yoga for School Kids

Good health is the right of every human being. But this right depends on individual, social, and environmental factors. Along with environmental or social factors to a large extent, we can develop a better immune system and a better perception of ourselves so that other conditions do not affect us adversely and we can achieve good health.  Health is a positive concept. Positive health does not mean merely freedom from disease, but it also includes a jubilant and energetic feeling of well-being with an amount of general resistance and capacity to easily cultivate immunity against specific offending agents. Yoga is one of the most powerful drugless systems of treatment. It is having its concept of wellness which has been scientifically understood and presented by many. Yoga can be adopted as a lifestyle for promoting our physical and mental health.

 Yoga, if introduced at the school level, would help to inculcate healthy habits and lifestyles to achieve good health. The aim of yoga thus, at the school level, is to encourage a positive and healthy lifestyle for the physical, mental, and emotional health of children. Yoga helps in the development of strength, stamina, endurance, and high energy at a physical level. It also empowers oneself with increased concentration, calm, peace, and contentment at the mental level leading to inner and outer harmony.

Scientific Evidence of Yoga's Benefits for School Children

As per the news article published in the Harvard Medical School on January, 2016, Yoga and mindfulness have been shown to improve both physical and mental health in school-age children (ages 6 to 12). Yoga and mindfulness offer psychological benefits for children as well. A growing body of research has already shown that yoga can improve focus, memory, self-esteem, academic performance, and classroom behavior, and can even reduce anxiety and stress in children.

Emerging research studies also suggest that yoga can help children with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) by improving the core symptoms of ADHD, including inattentiveness, hyperactivity, and impulsivity (Cohen, 2017). It can also boost school performance in children with ADHD. A growing number of schools now integrate yoga and mindfulness into physical education programs or classroom curriculums, and many yoga studios offer classes for school-age children. Yoga can be playful and interactive for parents and children at home, as well.

Some Specific Benefits of Yoga for School Children

Yoga offers numerous benefits for school children, both physically and mentally. Here are some of the key reasons why yoga is important for school children:

Physical health:

 Yoga promotes physical fitness and flexibility. Through various poses and movements, children can develop better posture, balance, coordination, and strength. Regular practice of yoga can also enhance cardiovascular health, improve digestion, and increase overall physical endurance.

Mental well-being:

 Yoga helps children manage stress and anxiety. It teaches them relaxation techniques, deep breathing exercises, and mindfulness, which can be beneficial in reducing feelings of tension and promoting emotional well-being. Regular yoga practice has been linked to improved focus, concentration, and attention span, which can enhance learning abilities in school.

Emotional development:

Yoga encourages self-awareness and emotional regulation. By engaging in yoga, children learn to recognize and understand their emotions better. It provides them with tools to manage and cope with challenging situations, such as dealing with academic pressures, social interactions, and conflicts. Yoga also fosters a sense of calmness and inner peace, promoting a positive emotional state.

Self-confidence and self-esteem:

As children practice yoga and develop new skills, they experience a sense of achievement, boosting their self-confidence and self-esteem. Yoga emphasizes self-acceptance and self-care, allowing children to appreciate their unique qualities and strengths. This can contribute to a positive self-image and a healthy mindset.

Improved academic performance:

 The physical and mental benefits of yoga can translate into better academic performance. By reducing stress, increasing focus, and improving cognitive function, yoga can enhance learning capabilities. Children who practice yoga may experience improved memory, problem-solving skills, and creativity, leading to better overall academic outcomes.

Social skills and empathy:

 Yoga often includes partner poses and group activities, promoting social interaction and cooperation. Children learn to work together, support each other, and develop empathy. These social skills are crucial for healthy relationships, teamwork, and collaboration, both inside and outside the classroom.

Healthy lifestyle habits:

Engaging in yoga from a young age can cultivate a lifelong habit of physical activity and wellness. By introducing children to the practice of yoga, they become more aware of the importance of staying active and taking care of their bodies. This can lay the foundation for a healthy lifestyle, including regular exercise, proper nutrition, and holistic well-being.

 

In summary, yoga provides numerous benefits for school children, encompassing physical health, mental well-being, emotional development, academic performance, social skills, and healthy lifestyle habits. By incorporating yoga into their routine, children can experience holistic growth and thrive in various aspects of their lives.

References

Cohen, S. C., Harvey, D., Shields, R., Angkustsiri, K., Schweitzer, J., Hansen, R., & Tancredi, D. (2017, January). EFFECTS OF YOGA ON ATTENTION, IMPULSIVITY AND HYPERACTIVITY IN PRESCHOOLERS. In JOURNAL OF INVESTIGATIVE MEDICINE (Vol. 65, No. 1, pp. 259-259). BRITISH MED ASSOC HOUSE, TAVISTOCK SQUARE, LONDON WC1H 9JR, ENGLAND: BMJ PUBLISHING GROUP.