The word yoga in Sanskrit means "to yoke," or bring union within the body, mind and spirit. Teens often face social pressures from peers and society, along with academic requirements and expectations. Teens who feel overwhelmed by such pressures may suffer from self-esteem issues and stress. Yoga can provide teens with a sense of inner calm and connection.
Valuing Oneself and Others
Teens commonly struggle with self-esteem issues, which is normal for that stage of development. Since they're still discovering who they are, peer pressure may lead them to compare themselves to others. Yoga fosters a sense of unconditional love for oneself and all living beings. The Sanskrit term "namaste," which is commonly said at the end of a yoga class, means "the divine light in me honors the divine light in you." Teens may feel more love for themselves, as well as a respect and connection to their family members, classmates and teachers.
Stress Relief
Practicing yoga regularly can help relieve anxiety, according to "Yoga Journal." When teens go through puberty, hormonal shifts can result in more volatile emotions. Yoga may help teens feel centered and grounded within themselves. The practice of meditation at the end of a yoga class can help teens find a stillness and sense of inner calm. Physical postures themselves, such as Corpse Pose and Child's Pose, are naturally restorative and grounding postures. For teens who're always on the go, yoga can provide a counter balance to all that outward movement.
Improved Fitness
Teens need a physical outlet to stay fit and energized. Yoga can improve a teen's flexibility, stamina and concentration. It also builds endurance. Yoga offers a variety of yoga styles; teens can try different classes to find the style that best suits their needs. For instance, Ashtanga yoga offers a quick-paced and vigorous workout in which the body is in constant motion. The Ashtanga sequence uses and tones all the muscles in your body. Iyengar yoga focuses on proper alignment within your body, such as how to hold your spine during poses.
Healthy Lifestyle
Yogic philosophy focuses on keeping your body healthy and vital. It teaches students to treat their bodies with respect. Teens who give in to peer and societal pressures may participate in illicit behaviors that include alcohol, cigarettes, sex or drugs. Yoga provides a deeper understanding of the mind-body connection, along with disciplined practices of self-nourishment and healthy living.
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