Effects of yoga and pranayama on attention-deficit/ hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) patients

Abstract

Yoga and Pranayam connects the mind and body through a series of poses, breathing exercises, and meditation to help achieve balanced health. Regular practice can increase flexibility and strength, improve posture, and improve mood and focus. Today, more than 16 million Americans practice yoga and pranayam regularly. Over the past decade, multiple scientific studies have confirmed the therapeutic benefits of yoga and pranayam practice. As a result, yoga and pranayam has emerged as a potentially integrative modality for the treatment of several common ailments. The National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine (NCCAM) is currently supporting research into the benefits of yoga and pranayam on diabetes risk factors, HIV, immune function, arthritis, menopausal symptoms, multiple sclerosis, PTSD, and smoking cessation. This NCCAM research program aims to build evidence data on the therapeutic effects of yoga. yoga and pranayam has been shown to reduce symptoms associated with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) inattention and hyperactive impulsiveness. The purpose of this article is to review current research investigating mind-body therapies used to treat children diagnosed with ADHD. Literature review addressing the effectiveness of exercise-based and mindfulness/meditation-based therapies for ADHD.