P-ISSN: 2394-1685 | E-ISSN: 2394-1693 | CODEN: IJPEJB
The mental health of adolescents in India has become a significant public health concern amid rising academic pressure, urban stressors, digital exposure, and socio-cultural changes. This research paper presents a comparative study examining the impact of Yoga and Physical Exercises on the mental health of Indian adolescents aged 13 to 19 years. The study aims to explore the differential effects of these two practices on psychological parameters such as stress, anxiety, depression, emotional regulation, and overall well-being.
Using a mixed-method research design, the study involved 300 adolescents from urban and semi-urban schools across three states in India. Participants were divided into two experimental groups one practicing structured Yoga (including asanas, pranayama, and dhyana) and the other engaging in conventional physical exercises (aerobics, running, calisthenics, and sports drills) over a 12-week intervention period. Standardized tools such as the General Health Questionnaire (GHQ-12), Beck Depression Inventory (BDI), and the Perceived Stress Scale (PSS) were administered pre- and post-intervention. Qualitative interviews were also conducted with selected participants and instructors to understand their subjective experiences.
Findings reveal that while both Yoga and Physical Exercises led to significant improvements in mental health, Yoga had a comparatively greater impact on reducing symptoms of anxiety and enhancing emotional balance and mindfulness. Physical exercises, on the other hand, were more effective in improving mood regulation and reducing depressive tendencies, particularly among male adolescents. The study underscores the potential of integrating both Yoga and physical education into school curricula to promote holistic mental health outcomes in Indian adolescents. Furthermore, it highlights the culturally embedded relevance of Yoga as a therapeutic and preventive strategy for adolescent psychological well-being in the Indian context.
International Journal of Physical Education, Sports and Health
Research Journals