The Fascinating Brain Science Behind Yoga’s Mental Health Benefits
In today’s fast-paced world, it’s no surprise that more families are turning to mindfulness and movement practices to support mental health, and yoga is leading the way. But beyond the calming breath and gentle poses, what’s really happening in the brain and body when we unroll our mats?
Let’s explore the science behind why yoga works—and how it can be especially powerful for children.
Yoga Changes the Brain (In a Good Way)
Research shows that regular yoga practice increases activity in the prefrontal cortex, the part of the brain responsible for focus, decision-making, and emotional regulation. At the same time, it reduces activity in the amygdala, the brain’s alarm system that controls fear and anxiety. This means yoga helps children (and adults!) respond more calmly to stress and make more thoughtful choices.
Yoga has also been shown to increase GABA (gamma-aminobutyric acid), a neurotransmitter that helps quiet nervous system activity. Low levels of GABA are linked to anxiety and mood disorders, so boosting it naturally through movement and breath is powerful.
Breath + Movement = Nervous System Reset
Each time we guide children to take a deep belly breath or stretch like a sleepy cat, we’re activating the parasympathetic nervous system, the part of the body responsible for rest, digestion, and repair. It’s the opposite of fight-or-flight.
This shift doesn’t just feel relaxing in the moment; it actually trains the body to find calm more quickly in stressful situations. It’s like building a muscle for resilience.
Body Awareness Builds Emotional Awareness
Children are still learning the language of their inner world. Yoga invites them to check in: How does my body feel today? Where am I holding tension? What happens when I move or breathe this way?
Over time, this body-based self-awareness lays the foundation for emotional literacy—the ability to name and navigate feelings with confidence.
Yoga as a Reset from Screen Time
Kids today are spending more time in front of screens than ever before—whether for learning, entertainment, or social connection. While screens have their place, too much can lead to mental fatigue, poor posture, eye strain, and increased anxiety.
Yoga offers a powerful antidote. Through intentional movement and focused breath, children reconnect with their bodies, rest their eyes, and shift attention inward. It’s a chance to unplug, recalibrate, and come back to center—physically, emotionally, and mentally.
Even just a few minutes of yoga can provide a much-needed reset after a long school day or tech-heavy afternoon.
The Science Supports What We See Every Day
At The Balanced Child Method, we see the transformation firsthand: A child who entered class anxious and withdrawn finishes beaming and at ease. A preschooler with big feelings takes a lion’s breath and a smile begins to form. (It’s hard not to laugh while taking a lion’s breath. Try it!) A teen finds comfort in a quiet pose after a tough day.
Science confirms what we already know: Yoga works.
If your child attends our classes, ask them to show you their favorite calming breath or yoga pose at home. It’s a simple way to create calm, connection, and smiles.
