Practice Note: Using Yoga for Emotional Regulation in Intermediate School Teenagers

Abstract

Background: This paper examines techniques used in yoga, including breathing techniques, various forms of meditation and physical postures that can impact youth diagnosed with emotional and behavioral disorders (EBD) learning to regulate their emotions to enhance their academic performance. Methods: The intervention was administered to teens at an intermediate public school for six weeks. Seventeen participants were chosen by mental health counselors and worked together with a yoga facilitator to better serve teens struggling with emotional regulation. Results: Pre- and post-tests show that meditation was the overall preferred technique chosen by students as a method to aid with emotional regulation. The intervention proved to be a step in the right direction. Conclusion: Moving forward in assisting students labeled with emotional and behavioral disorders including ADHD and ODD, it is imperative for educators and caregivers to be educated in childhood experiences as the leading cause of EBD. Simple techniques can have a great impact in helping them heal and live more fulfilling lives.