5 Reasons Why Teens And Tweens Should Do Yoga

The benefits of yoga are well known so it only makes sense that the occasional downward facing dog might do a teen or tween a world of good. In fact, yoga helps this age group cope with a number of issues as well as keep them focused on schoolwork.

For the times that it might be hard to motivate your teen into workout gear and out of the house, here are some reasons why it’s worth the effort.

Yoga Helps Teens Cope With Anxiety

Researchers from Brigham and Women’s Hospital and Harvard Medical School studied 51 high school students that either took regular PE class or a yoga class involving meditation, relaxation, breathing exercises and poses. At the beginning of the 10 week study, the students underwent a number of psychological tests. At the end of the study, the students who did yoga scored higher on the same tests versus the students who took PE and actually scored lower. The study was published in the Journal of Developmental and Behavioral Pediatrics and also showed that the teens doing yoga enjoyed the class and experienced more stable emotions throughout.

Yoga Keeps Teens Focused

A teen brain is all over the place. Parents around the world are also finding that yoga helps keep teens focused on the moment and less worried about other things, learned by holding proper yoga poses and meditation. The breathing techniques subconsciously calm teens prior to reacting to external stress and exams.

Yoga Boosts Self-Esteem

It’s a non-competitive exercise that anyone can do,  unlike sports where peer and performance pressures can play a significant role. The only person that a teen has to worry about when practicing yoga is themselves.

Yoga Helps Teens Deal With Change

A lot is happening to the teen body during these years with potentially awkward changes. Yoga helps connect the mind and body while helping to shape and tone. You feel good after a yoga session, right? A teen will, too.

Yoga Rejuvenates Tired Teens

Does your teen only want to sleep? It’s thought that yoga relaxes the mind and prevents overstimulation, therefore, helping teens stay alert and less tired due to anxiety and stress.