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VOL. 11, ISSUE 2 (2026)
Effects of integrated yogic practices on cognitive performance in children aged 8-12: An experimental study
Authors
Revathi Dama, Dr Larry Seidlitz
Abstract
This study investigates the effects of an
integrated yogic intervention on cognitive performance – specifically,
attention, memory, and reaction time – in children aged 8-12 years. A total of
31 school students were allocated to an experimental group (n = 18) receiving a
56-day integrated yogic programme comprising Bhramari Pranayama with Adi Mudra,
Navasana, and Yoga Nidra, or a control group (n = 13) engaged in structured
non-yogic activities. One control participant was lost to follow-up, yielding a
final analysed sample of 30. Cognitive performance was assessed using
custom-built digital tools measuring sustained attention (Continuous
Performance Test), spatial memory (Corsi-style block-tapping task), and simple
reaction time before and after the intervention. Paired-samples t-tests and
Cohen's d effect sizes revealed that the experimental group showed
statistically significant improvements in reaction time (Pre: M = 809.94, SD =
418.09; Post: M = 477.61, SD = 202.99; p <.001, d = -1.04), CPT correct responses
(p <.001, d = 1.16), and memory level (p <.001, d = 1.18). The control
group showed negligible changes. These findings suggest that structured,
integrated yogic interventions can serve as effective, low-cost school-based
programmes for enhancing cognitive functioning in children.
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Pages:46-55
How to cite this article:
Revathi Dama, Dr Larry Seidlitz "Effects of integrated yogic practices on cognitive performance in children aged 8-12: An experimental study". International Journal of Yoga, Physiotherapy and Physical Education, Vol 11, Issue 2, 2026, Pages 46-55
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