Yoga: Boosting Mental and Physical Wellbeing of Adolescents in a Changing World
The teenage years are a rollercoaster as this is the age of Growth, Mental & Emotional challenges, Hormonal surge, Puberty and so much more. During this period, the parents need to understand how to manage this tactfully while providing the kid with the right nutrition and building the right habits.
Whatever is fed to them at this age, will go with them for a long period. Between academic pressures, social anxieties, and the ever-changing landscape of technology and social media, adolescents face a unique set of challenges. Yoga is a powerful and accessible tool to navigate this crucial period and cultivate long-term well-being. Although it is difficult for the parents to encourage the kids of such age to do Yoga, they have to handle it in a very creative manner.
Building a Strong Body and Mind
Yoga goes beyond just physical exercise. Yoga is a combination of Asanas, Pranayama & Meditation. It helps to improve strength, flexibility, and balance not only physically, but mentally as well. It will make the children more aware & help them academically as well as promote better decision-making. It fosters a sense of body awareness and control, which is especially important during adolescence when bodies are rapidly growing and changing.
Stress Management for a Calmer Mind
The teenage years are often riddled with stress and anxiety. Exams, social pressures, and the constant flow of information from technology can take a toll on mental well-being. With many hormonal changes happening at this age, it becomes difficult to handle ourselves emotionally. Yoga incorporates Pranayama, or yogic breathing techniques, which have a calming effect on the mind and body. By practising deep breathing exercises, adolescents can learn to manage stress in healthy ways, leading to improved emotional well-being, better sleep, and a greater ability to cope with life's challenges.
Boosting Confidence and Body Positivity
Adolescence is a time when self-esteem and body image are often fragile. Yoga focuses on individual progress and self-acceptance. Through yoga poses and mindful practices, teenagers can learn to appreciate their bodies for what they can do, rather than focusing on perceived flaws. They will learn to accept themselves, listen to their body & love their bodies, This fosters a positive body image and boosts their confidence, both on and off the yoga mat.
Meditation for academic growth
Meditation helps us in detoxing our minds. Regular practice of meditation has so many benefits. Some of them are better focus, calm mind, stability & the resolve to achieve what you set your mind to. Meditation also helps in improving concentration and enhances their ability to learn. A calmer and more focused mind is better equipped to handle the demands of school and exams.
Supporting Long-Term Wellbeing in a Changing World
As technology and living habits continue to evolve, the benefits of yoga become even more relevant. Our increasingly screen-based lifestyles can lead to sedentary habits, poor posture, and decreased attention spans. Yoga provides a much-needed antidote. It encourages teenagers to move their bodies, develop discipline, and focus on the present moment. These skills will be invaluable throughout their lives, allowing them to adapt to change, manage stress effectively, and maintain a healthy lifestyle.
Early Habits continue for life
This is the age of building your kids in the right way. When good habits and a healthy lifestyle are encouraged at this age, it goes on with them for a long time. This is the age where they pick up long-term habits. Hence, it's important to ensure that they're picking up the right habits. Introducing Yoga and the right nutrition at this age will make their roots strong.
Making Yoga Accessible for Everyone
The beauty of yoga lies in its accessibility. Yoga can be practised anywhere. Encouragement from parents or guardians can play a key role in introducing yoga to teenagers. Practising yoga together can be a wonderful way to bond and create lasting memories.
Yoga is an invaluable tool for teenagers, offering a multitude of benefits for their physical and mental health. By incorporating yoga into their lives, adolescents can build a strong foundation for long-term well-being, navigate the challenges of their teenage years, and grow into happy, confident adults. In a world that is constantly changing, yoga provides a constant – a safe space for exploration, growth, and self-discovery.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Disha Chandreja is a 350-hour certified Yoga trainer from the Sri Sri School of Yoga. Currently, she is furthering her studies in nutrition, specializing in gynaecology. Yoga has been a significant influence in her life, and she is passionate about sharing this beautiful practice with the world, aiming to guide as many people as possible on this path. Disha believes that the practice of asanas alone is not sufficient. She emphasizes the importance of experiencing the true essence of Yoga, which encompasses much more than just the physical postures.