Perceived Benefits of Yoga among Urban School Students: A Qualitative Analysis

Abstract EN

This study reports on the findings of a qualitative evaluation of a yoga intervention program for urban middle and high school youth in New York City public and charter schools.

Six focus groups were conducted with students who participated in a year-long yoga program to determine their perceptions of mental and physical benefits as well as barriers and challenges.

Results show that students perceived the benefits of yoga as increased self-regulation, mindfulness, self-esteem, physical conditioning, academic performance, and stress reduction.

Barriers and challenges for a yoga practice include lack of time and space.

The extent to which the benefits experienced are interrelated to one another is discussed.

Suggestions for future research and school-based programming are also offered.