WHY YOUR TEENAGER NEEDS YOGA
Yoga helps at a time when mental health problems are common
Between the busy schedules and social pressures they face, one in five teens will be affected by a mental health disorder before reaching adulthood, the most common being anxiety, depression and ADHD. Shockingly, 60% of children with diagnosable depression are not treated. Kids with anxiety disorders are treated even less, with 80& not receiving treatment.
Research has consistently shown the significant benefits of meditation in managing a range of mental health issues. It’s been found to help regulate mood and anxiety disorders, manage ADHD, reduce stress, and improve focus, among many others.
Meditation is not just a treatment option; it’s safe and effective. It’s been shown to be a non-medicinal alternative for treating mood and attention disorders in both teens and adults. This underscores the potential of meditation as a holistic, non-invasive approach to mental health.
Yoga encourages a non-competitive atmosphere
On their report cards, on the fields, and in social environments, teens face judgment and competition everywhere. Rarely do they have an outlet to be purely recognized for their efforts without measurement. This constant pressure can be overwhelming. However, yoga provides a unique space where competition is left at the door, and teens can find relief from this relentless race.
WHY YOGA?
Yoga is a powerful tool for teens to manage anxiety and stress. It isn’t only helpful on the mat but can also help teens cope with stress, fear, and anxiety. More than that, it empowers them to become more self-aware, understand their emotions and reactions, and take control of their mental well-being.
Breath
The breath is central to yoga practice. By teaching teens to focus on their breath, we guide them towards mindfulness, a key component of yoga.
Builds Balance
Yoga is a powerful tool for teenagers, empowering them to take control of their physical, emotional, and spiritual balance. As they navigate the increasing responsibilities of adolescence, this balance becomes a crucial asset in managing their work, social life, diet, and other lifestyle factors.
Instills Compassion
Teenagers can be hard on themselves and each other, so instilling the value of compassion and kindness is crucial. Yoga, focusing on self-compassion and awareness, is a nurturing guide that helps teens radiate these qualities outward to others.
Builds Self-Esteem and Teaches a Healthy Body Image
Yoga provides a healthy environment for teenagers, particularly girls, by fostering internal confidence and a positive body image. Unlike competitive sports, yoga encourages teens to measure their progress against their own goals, not the capabilities of others, relieving them of unnecessary pressure.
Encourages Fun
How often do you see your teenagers beaming with pride? Would you like to see more of that? One of the most rewarding aspects of yoga is the sense of accomplishment that comes with mastering new poses. It’s a journey filled with fun and laughter, a safe way for them to take risks and bond with their peers.
Teaches Relaxation
Young teens have a tremendous amount of energy and are constantly moving. It’s essential to take the time to relax and learn the techniques to calm their bodies and minds. Yoga, with its focus on relaxation, helps teach teens how to unwind even while moving their bodies through poses using their breath.
Emotional
Yoga is not just about physical fitness but also about emotional well-being. By practising mindfulness on the mat, teens can better understand their emotions. Yoga helps them connect with their inner selves, enabling them to comprehend their feelings fully. This enhanced emotional intelligence can be a powerful tool for teens to navigate their lives more effectively.
Increases Flexibility
During adolescence, there are growth spurts. The bones tend to grow fast, and the muscles stay a little tighter. This makes it challenging to maintain flexibility in adolescence. Increasing flexibility helps prevent sports-related injuries.
Promotes Better Posture
Many alignment principles of yoga, like drawing your navel to your spine and lifting from the crown of your head, engage you in proper posture.
Yoga Gives Tools for Life
The bottom line? Teenagers have a lot on their minds, and that’s stressful. It also equips them with tools such as mindfulness, self-awareness, and stress management techniques that are invaluable in navigating the challenges of adolescence and beyond.
These tools will prepare them for life. Teenagers are just trying to figure out who they are and where they belong. In a confusing time, yoga will give them strategies for dealing with the ups and downs of their lives that will last a lifetime, offering a hopeful outlook for their future.