'It stretches your body but makes you feel good too': A qualitative study exploring young people's perceptions and experiences of yoga.

ABSTRACT: Whilst research suggests that yoga can positively impact physical and psychological wellbeing, understanding of youth's experiences is limited with no non-clinical studies in the UK. Ten focus groups explored perceptions and experiences of yoga among 35 youth (10-18 years). Inductive thematic analysis revealed that yoga was viewed as a holistic mind-body practice cultivating greater awareness and enhanced physical performance. Youth described yoga as providing tools that developed confidence, stress-management and emotional self-regulation. Social and relational impacts of yoga were highly valued. Despite the perceived biopsychosocial benefits of yoga, gendered and media representations of yoga may serve as a barrier to uptake.

SUBMITTER: Cartwright T 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC10387721 | biostudies-literature | 2023 Aug

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature