Stress comes in all forms. You can probably recall a time that you have been stressed over work, family, health issues, etc. How did you deal with reducing your stress?
College students face many problems including financial issues, and balancing school and work while trying to maintain a healthy social life. These problems can lead to increased stress, anxiety, panic attacks, and depression. Research involving college students suggests that yoga improves the health and mental wellness of students.
Students were broken into 3 groups that did different things: yoga, cognitive- behavioral stress management (or therapy), and a group receiving no treatment. Students took tests involving their mental and physical health. After taking a second test, experimenters found that yoga was associated with an increase in mindfulness and composure while decreasing thoughtless responses in students. Researchers also found that students involved in yoga walked more and sat less than those who didn’t participate. These factors led to increased mental stability and better overall health.
How helpful is yoga in decreasing stress among college students? According to the study, college students rated yoga significantly higher than therapy in regards to how helpful it is in their everyday life. College students who did yoga reported having more energy while showing less negative behaviors caused by stress.
In my opinion, yoga is an easy way to relieve the stress that comes along with being s college student. No negative behaviors came from participating in yoga classes; furthermore, student reports suggest that it is good way to reduce stress. Next time you’re feeling down or overwhelmed, give yoga a try!
Written by Elizabeth Hamilton