Main Menu
Yoga helps teens develop coping skills
High school students respond to yoga. The positive results are noted in a new study.
“Yoga may serve a preventive role in adolescent mental health,” said Jessical Noggle, PhD, of Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Harvard Medical School. A group of high school students were randomly assigned to yoga or regular Physical Education classes. The type of yoga taught was based on Kripalu yoga and consisted of postures with breathing exercises, relaxation and mediation.
Before and after the ten-week program, the students completed a battery of psychosocial tests. They also completed tests assessing the development of self-regulatory skills like resilience, control of anger, and mindfulness. All of these skills are believed to help with mental health preservation.
The yoga group tested much better after the program. The PE group had increased scores for mood problems and anxiety. Negative emotions were higher in the PE group.
Tests for self-regulation were not higher in either group. The kids who took the yoga class seemed to enjoy it, rating it slightly higher. Three-fourths of the group said they would continue in yoga class.
Yoga could be an excellent alternative for adolescent teens. It is an excellent time to develop coping skills for stress and healthy coping strategies as well as resilience and awareness of mental health. Yoga combines strength and flexibility with relaxation and meditative techniques. The study suggests some positive psychological effects of Kripalu yoga. Dr. Noggle is looking to conduct a larger study and track the teens into adulthood. A larger study would clarify the benefits.
Source: ScienceDaily, Journal of Developmental & Behavioral Pediatrics
This information is solely for informational and educational purposes only. The publication of this information does not constitute the practice of medicine, family planning, child psychology, marriage counseling and this information does not replace the advice of your physician or other health care or mental health care provider. Neither the owners or employees of NaturalFamilyOnline.com or the author(s) of site content take responsibility for any possible consequences from any treatment, procedure, exercise, dietary modification, application of medication or any other action involving the care of yourself or any family members which results from reading this site. It is always best to speak with your primary health care provider before engaging in any form of self treatment. Additional information contained in our Legal Statement
Poll
What does your weekly dinner look like?
The whole family dines together at home
63%
The whole family dines together at a restaurant
1%
Parents and children eat separately
4%
Whoever is around eats together
21%
Every family member for themselves!
11%
Total votes: 5755