About Yoga and ADHD

By Faye Martins

Can Yoga improve symptoms of attention deficit disorder? For people who question the benefits of Yoga or the existence of ADHD, the question remains controversial. For those, who recognize the power of Yoga on the mind and body, though, it may be easier to fathom its cognitive and behavioral benefits, as well. Scientists agree that more study is needed, but early research indicates that Yoga can be helpful.

Effects of ADHD

Many of the negative characteristics associated with ADHD can become assets when properly channeled. Traits like creativity, thinking outside the box, and the ability to single-mindedly focus on a single topic for hours (if it interests them) can be a blessing or a curse, depending on environment and expectations.  

While its severity varies through the years, ADHD doesn’t usually go away. Grown-ups, although they have learned to compensate in many ways, still deal with many of ADHD’s symptoms. Anxiety, mood disorders, and lack of organizational skills can hurt careers and relationships well into adulthood.

The people with attention deficit disorders who are most successful are those who approach the diagnosis with an open mind. They know how they learn best, they recognize their strengths, and they structure their lives to accomplish their goals.  Many find that Yoga is a powerful ally on their journey through life.

What the Experts Say about Yoga and ADHD

·         In his book, “Scattered Minds,” physician and author Gabor Mate says people with ADHD beat themselves up over the frustration they experience daily. Mate suggests that Yoga exercises, meditation, and breathing build self-acceptance by relaxing the body and enabling the subconscious mind to re-program negative beliefs and self-talk.

·         Richard Brown, psychiatrist and professor at Columbia University College of Physicians and Surgeons, recommends Yogic breathing for people with ADHD. He says it alleviates anxiety and increases concentration, and it’s easy to do at any time and place.

·         Sleep problems are common in children with ADHD. Research from a 2004 edition of the “Journal of Attention Disorders” says that Yoga decreases hyperactivity and insomnia, but there was insufficient evidence at that time to show it could replace medical treatment.

·         In 2006, German researchers found that adding Yoga to a drug treatment greatly benefited children with ADHD. One of the study’s authors, Nicole Goldstein, M.D., says that forward bends work well because they “increase exhalation by lengthening and deepening the breath.”  She thinks this is “key in developing concentration.”

When we consider the fact that ADHD spills over into every other area of life, it makes more sense than ever that Yoga can be beneficial in improving quality of life for people with ADHD and the people around them.

© Copyright 2013 – Aura Wellness Center – Publications Division

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