An estimated 2.5 million people between the ages of 4 and 17 years of age take prescription medication for symptoms related to attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder, more commonly referred to as ADHD, "Yoga Journal" magazine reports on its website. Yoga is designed to increase participants' concentration and meditation abilities. The magazine notes that research into yoga as an alternative treatment to changing behaviors in people with ADHD seems to have some merit.
Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder
ADHD is usually diagnosed during childhood. Overactivity, inattention and poorly modulated behavior are just a few of the signs used to diagnose the condition. These symptoms can affect a child's success at school and an adult's success at school and at work. This disorder can also cause developmental problems socially and emotionally, researchers report in the journal "Cochrane Reviews." ADHD affects not only the sufferer but his family and loved ones, too. ADHD is commonly treated with one or more prescription drugs and sometimes behavior therapies and dietary changes.
Yoga
Yoga is a series of movements completed while focusing on breathing. Aligning the body, spirit and mind is the goal of yoga exercises. Stress relief, increased focus and meditation are just a few of the benefits of participating in yoga, "Yoga Journal" notes. There are many different types of yoga available --- making it important to talk to instructors at studios about what kind of yoga is taught and the outcomes you may be hoping for.
Research
Research on the effects of yoga on ADHD symptoms is varied. "Yoga Journal" cites studies performed in Australia and Germany showing that yoga can offer relief from symptoms and increase focus for ADHD sufferers. It also increases concentration, promotes mental and physical discipline and increases confidence. A study of 8-to-13-year-old males saw a decrease in hyperactivity with one yoga session per week for five months; the forward bend, a pose that demands longer, deeper breaths, appeared to be particularly helpful. Analysis by "Cochrane Reviews" of research available before June 2010 shows no statistically significant difference between drug therapy and meditation therapy. However, improvement was noted in individuals who participated in the meditation studies reviewed.
Precautions
Before beginning any exercise routine, discuss the activity with your doctor to make sure you are healthy enough to engage in yoga without creating or aggravating health problems. Do not stop taking any medications prescribed to treat ADHD without the input of the prescribing physician.
References
- "Yoga Journal" magazine: Focus on ADHD
- "Cochrane Reviews"; Meditation therapies for Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder; Thawatchai Krisanaprakornkit et al; June 2010.
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