YOGA AND MINDFULNESS IN EDUCATIONAL SETTINGS: IMPACT ON STUDENT WELL-BEING AND PERFORMANCE

Abstract

The integration of yoga and mindfulness practices in educational settings has gained considerable attention in recent years as a potential avenue for enhancing student well-being and academic performance. This review research paper systematically examines existing literature to investigate the impact of yoga and mindfulness interventions on students' overall well-being and academic outcomes. The paper delves into studies conducted across diverse educational levels, exploring the methodologies, interventions employed, and the reported effects. The literature suggests that the incorporation of yoga and mindfulness in educational curricula contributes positively to students' mental health, emotional regulation, and stress reduction. Moreover, these practices have demonstrated the potential to foster a positive classroom environment, improve interpersonal relationships, and enhance overall student engagement. The review synthesizes findings on the cognitive benefits of yoga and mindfulness, highlighting improvements in attention, concentration, and academic performance observed in various academic settings. Additionally, the paper explores the potential moderating factors that influence the effectiveness of yoga and mindfulness programs, such as duration, frequency, and the age of the participants. The comprehensive analysis considers both qualitative and quantitative evidence, providing a nuanced understanding of the multifaceted impacts of these practices on student well-being. While acknowledging the promising outcomes, the review also addresses methodological limitations within the existing body of literature, emphasizing the need for rigorous research designs and standardized assessment tools. Furthermore, considerations regarding the cultural appropriateness and inclusivity of these practices in diverse educational settings are discussed. This review paper consolidates current knowledge on the integration of yoga and mindfulness in educational settings, emphasizing the potential benefits for student well-being and academic performance. The synthesis of findings provides valuable insights for educators, policymakers, and researchers, offering a foundation for future studies aimed at refining the understanding of the role of these practices in fostering a holistic and conducive learning environment.

Keywords: Yoga, Mindfulness, Educational settings, Student well-being, Academic performance, Mental health, Emotional regulation, Stress reduction, Classroom environment, Interpersonal relationships.