The Impact Of Yoga on Neurodivergent Individuals

Yoga is recognized for its numerous physical and mental health benefits. While many people embrace yoga for its ability to enhance flexibility, strength, and relaxation, its impact on neurodivergent individuals - such as autism, ADHD and other neurodevelopmental conditions is often not talked about. It's important to learn about the influence yoga can cause on the lives of neurodivergent individuals, so let's explore together.

Improved Focus and Attention- One of the most significant benefits of yoga for neurodivergent people, especially those with ADHD(Attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder), is improved focus and attention. Yoga practices that incorporate mindfulness and breathing techniques help people develop deeper concentration. By learning to control breathing and stay present, this helps reduce hyperactivity and sustain their attention on tasks more effectively.

Nervous System Regulation- Yoga helps in regulating the nervous system, which is particularly beneficial for neurodivergent people who often experience heightened anxiety and stress. Consistent stress and anxiety are common among neurodivergent people. Yoga's calming nature can play a crucial role in relieving this intense mental turmoil. The relaxation techniques involved in yoga, such as deep breathing and meditation can promote a sense of calm and well-being. This can reduce anxiety levels significantly and help neurodivergent individuals manage and place stress ably. Regulating one's emotions is often a challenge for neurodivergent individuals. By regularly practicing yoga, they can learn to respond and regulate their emotions more thoughtfully and rather than reacting impulsively. Yoga practices help to develop better control over one's emotions through mindfulness that encourages awareness of one's thoughts and feelings. Both fast-paced and slow-paced yoga styles can help ease the need for self-stimulatory behaviors (stimming) by providing a structured way to release energy and calm the mind. Yoga has been proven to help with reducing behavioral issues as well, a study found that yoga practice improves self-regulation in autistic children, leading to less meltdowns and better emotional stability.

Sensory Integration- Many neurodivergent individuals face sensory sensitivities. Yoga can help in aiding sensory integration by offering a predictable and controlled environment to explore different sensory inputs. Being in a familiar environment can help neurodivergent people feel more comfortable and open to trying new things. Techniques like Yoga Nidra, which involves deep relaxation, can reduce being overstimulated and overwhelmed by sensory overload and improve sensory processing.

Physical Health and Body Awareness- It is widely known that yoga can enhance physical health by improving strength, flexibility and coordination. But this also means that it can help improve body and spatial awareness along with interoception (the sense of internal body states) which can be particularly challenging for those with autism and ADHD.

Mindfulness and Presence- Yoga's emphasis on mindfulness and being present in the moment can be incredibly grounding for neurodivergent people. This aspect of yoga helps one to connect with their bodies and minds in a comforting environment and in a non-judgemental way. This can help to foster self-acceptance and reduce the pressure to conform to what is known as 'normal' for neurotypical people.

Catering to Neurodivergent Needs- To help neurodivergent people feel comfortable and help them actually get these benefits from these yoga practices, it's important to remember to cater to their needs. Having a sensory friendly environment, making the space calm and free from extra stimuli. Having very structured lessons with clear instructions and routines is very important for some neurodivergent individuals, making the space predictable and safe. It's important to make sure the practice is both supportive and effective, being patient and listening to their needs.

Conclusion- Yoga offers multiple benefits for neurodivergent individuals, from improving emotional regulation to enhancing sensory processing and body awareness. By integrating yoga into their routines, neurodivergent people can actively make changes to contribute to finding supportive ways to help them that promotes overall well-being and resilience.

Sources -

https://www.oregonneuroception.com/blog/yoga-nidra https://www.abtaba.com/blog/autism-and-yoga

https://www.heartandmindpsych.com/blog/the-many-benefits-of-yoga-for-neurodiverse-individuals

https://www.yogaforneurodiversity.com/whatis

https://www.yogajournal.com/teach/what-is-neurodiversity-affirming-yoga/

https://warriorflowschool.com/embracing-neurodiversity-in-yoga-and-beyond/#:~:text=Yoga%20and%20Neurodiversity%3A,or%20inclusive%20of%20neurodivergent%20individuals.

https://yogainternational.com/article/view/how-yoga-can-benefit-adults-with-autism/#:~:text=Emotional%20Benefits%20Along%20with%20the,to%20the%20practice%20of%20yoga.

Written by Nicolette Horvath