New Delhi: "Yoga is the journey of the self, through the self to the self." - Bhagavad Gita
This beautiful and insightful piece of wisdom can help us understand the importance of yoga in life, and more so in adolescence when a child's all-round development -- physical, emotional and social -- begins.
Yoga has always been an integral part of Health and Physical Education, a compulsory subject, since 1988. The National Curriculum Framework, 2005, adopted a holistic approach towards health. Thus, yoga became more of an' experiential learning' component than a part of instructive education.
And school life does come up with all the fun and leisure, but that doesn't make the student's life pressure-free. One may feel that it is only the senior students who have to face all the hard times but in reality, even the first graders have become susceptible to the academic pressure these days.
- Yoga brings in the momentous transformation that can enable students to keep up with their regular academic tasks without any flusters
- Yoga not only takes care of the physical well-being but also gives calmative effect on the mental state making it clear that additional benefits of yoga are compelling.
The educators have become highly interested in apprising students about yoga. When talking about the leading educational institutions, various surveys and reports suggest that this practice is already in the picture. Most parents encourage their kids to get into these classes as they are already familiar with the perks of it.
Here's what teachers have to say:"Often stress is seen as a major hindrance when it comes to the academic performance of students. Hike up in the competition has increased the incidents of stress and depression among students at an alarming rate. As we all know that Yoga comes up with stress relieving powers so it can undeniably be a stress buster for students" says MeetaRai, Principal, DPS Indirapuram.
"In my opinion, yoga is above all the regular physical exercises as it paves the way for disciplinary lifestyle amidst the students. It serves both the physical body and the psychological aspect of a person. Gradually, one can develop a power to sense what's wrong and right," says GeetaVarshneya, Education Director, Khaitan Public School.
" It's equally important to serve the brain with spiritual knowledge and practices as one cannot apply the knowledge gained from education without the right sense of mind. There are meditation practices involved in yoga because of which both the conscious and subconscious segments of the brain can be benefitted. It's important to practice overall yoga exercises in order to get the full benefit from it"
These are the benefits of including yoga in school curriculum:
Physical FitnessAn all-round development of children includes proper physical growth. This requires that all their nutritional and fitness needs are met. Physical fitness improves stamina, fine and gross motor skills, agility, etc. The chances of a kid, who sincerely practices yoga, performing well in any game is good. Thus, it opens up a career for them in sports. Practicing yoga could also bring about a sense of discipline, which is needed to prosper in any aspect of life. Moreover, 21st century students spend a lot of time in front of computers, which could affect their posture and eventually their health. However, performing asanas could help students mitigate the damage.
Stress ManagementManaging stress could be difficult for anybody, and perhaps more so for students. A lot of emotions, both negative and positive, could be overpowering. If they are unable to find an outlet or an expression, stress could affect their concentration and memory. If students are unable to manage their stress, it could adversely affect their studies. However, stress is an inevitable part of life and it could also have a positive effect-students could push themselves to achieve their targets and not get disheartened by failures. Vihara or relaxation could be achieved through asana and meditation.
Personality DevelopmentThe personality development of an individual begins at birth and assumes great importance during adolescence. Emotional, physical, intellectual and social are the various dimensions of personality development. Yoga could help students with their all-round growth. While surya namaskar can improve blood circulation, pranayama could be an effective emotion management tool.
An important aspect of personality development is socialisation. Respecting others, being polite and honest with others are key elements in leading a healthy and happy social life. The various breathing techniques of yoga can help students control their thoughts and emotions, reach harmony and manage their social life well.
Yoga is more than just breathing techniques and correct postures, it is a way of leading a healthy life.
Originated in India, now it is being accepted as a form of science all over the world. It aims to unite the body, mind and soul. Yoga ought to be included in school curriculum with the view of developing a healthy lifestyle in learners and inculcating humane values in them. #Source: The India Today
