Awareness and practice regarding yoga among high school students in selected institutes of the Kathmandu District

Abstract

<b>Background:</b> Yoga’s influence on the well-being and performance of youth has garnered increasing attention due to its numerous benefits, such as stress reduction, enhanced concentration, and improved physical fitness. However, research on the awareness and practice of yoga among youth in Nepal remains limited. Therefore, this study aims to examine the level of awareness and involvement in yoga practice among high school students in Nepal.<br /> <b>Methods:</b> A descriptive, cross-sectional study design is followed to examine the awareness and practice of yoga among high school students’ participants N = 226, in selected institutions in Kathmandu District. The study focused on two institutions: One institutes is situated in Bashundhara, Kathmandu, and another in Kamaladi, Kathmandu. Stratified sampling method is used. Researchers utilized self-administered tools. These tools were self-designed in consultation with experts, underwent pilot testing, and underwent reliability and validity testing. Additionally, descriptive and Chi-square tests were administered.<br /> <b>Results:</b> The study revealed that 49.8% of participants had a poor level of awareness about yoga. Additionally, the majority of respondents (90.5%) reported not having a habit of practicing yoga.<br /> <b>Conclusion</b>: The current study found a poor level of knowledge about yoga, with only a few participants engaged in practicing it. These findings suggest a gap between knowledge and practice. However, evidence suggests that regular yoga practice supports the enhancement of mental well-being and performance. Therefore, researchers strongly recommend that academic leadership, parents, and teachers introduce such packages in schools and implement interventions, such as life skills education, to promote and maintain sustainable habits.