Mindfulness exercises may not be the first thing that comes to mind when looking for stress relief techniques for girls, but some scientists are beginning to see the value of yoga-based therapy for schoolchildren.
Girls in primary school may be stereotyped as carefree – hence the phrase "to giggle like a schoolgirl" – but as many grown women will tell you, being a child in an elementary environment is not all sugar, spice and everything nice. Even under the age of 10, girls can experience stress and anxiety related to socializing and self-awareness – a problem researchers say may be addressed with yoga.
Mindfulness exercises may not be the first thing that comes to mind when looking for stress relief techniques for girls, but some scientists are beginning to see the value of yoga-based therapy for schoolchildren – similar to what Dahn Yoga has been offering for years.
Research published in the Journal of Pediatric Healthcare found that school-age girls given lessons in mindfulness were better able to handle academic stresses and self-esteem issues, compared to their peers.
The authors provided a group of schoolgirls with a one-hour weekly yoga class, in which relaxation, tranquility, self-worth and self-esteem were positively reinforced. Meanwhile, the instructor encouraged the girls to gradually shake away negative thoughts and emotions.
These kids ultimately reported having an easier time coping with stress, feeling more self-esteem and being able to regulate their emotions more efficiently.
