A Comparative Study on Effect of Suryanamaskara and Krida Yoga in Adolescent Children with Respect to Coping Skills on Educational Anxiety and Stress

Abstract

Previous studies have separately reported the effects of physical exercise and yoga in children, showing physical, cognitive and emotional benefits. The present randomized controlled trial assessed the effects of Suryanamaskara intervention to Krida Yoga intervention on Educational Anxiety and stress, in school children. 74 school children between age group 14 to 15 years were randomized as Suryanamaskara intervention and Krida Yoga groups {n=37 each}. Both groups were blind assessed as per the convenient sampling. After allocation, using: (i) the Galvanic skin stress resistance test and (ii) Educational Anxiety inventory recordings were made. The Suryanamaskara group practiced yoga (Loosening techniques, Suryanamaskar and guided relaxation), 45 minutes each day, 2 days a week for 8 weeks. During this time the Krida yoga group had Kirda yoga games from Dattaram Pol and guided relaxation in place. Both groups were assessed at the end of16 weeks. Data were analyzed with paired t-test using SPSS. All the changes reported below are based on after-before comparisons, within each group. Both groups showed significant relief in the Educational anxiety inventory with improved results in bringing down the anxiety level (p=0.000). Both groups showed a significant change in their stress level during GSSR test, the (p <0.000), while the Suryanamaskar group showed higher interference scores (p=0.000) than the Krida Yoga group (p=.000). Total in general there was an improved reduction of stress and academic anxiety in both the yoga groups (t > 1.96). Suryanamaskar and Krida Yoga had significant improvement with Suryanamaskara group showing better significance compared to Krida yoga group and are useful additions in combinations to the school routine.