Introduction: Mental health and inactivity has increased amongst children and youngsters who are physically active are too few. A physically active lifestyle is connected with reduced risk of contracting non-communicable diseases. Yoga is available as an intervention on different arenas around the world and has proven positive effects. The aim of this literature review study is to understand positive effects with yoga for children within the school environment.
Method: A literature review study has been made including qualitative and quantitative research. Searches have been made in the databases available at the University of Skövde. The study question has been directed to existing research with focus on yoga and children. Articles have been selected from exclusion and inclusion criteria.
Results: Most of the studies indicate that children enjoy yoga and felt less angry and less depressed afterwards.Yoga also indicates physical health effects including improved motor-skills, balance and lower cortisol levels. Teachers report that children improve their coping strategies and become calmer and more harmonious in the classroom.
Discussion: The research indicates positive results but there are instances where children have reported feeling emotionally unwell when doing Yoga. More in-depth and longer studies are needed to ascertain whether the results are lasting.