Effect of Surya Namaskar on Sustained Attention in School Children

Abstract

Background: Sun salutation (Surya Namaskar) is a comprehensive Yoga technique which incorporates physical activity, breath regulation, relaxation and awareness. Apart from improving physical stamina and endurance, Surya namaskar has been shown to influence an individual’s perception and performance. Hence, the present study has been designed to measure the performance of school children in a digit letter substitution task following the practice of Surya namaskar compared to physical exercise. Methods: 320 school children between the age group of 12 to 14 years, belonging to both ��genders were screened and 64 healthy volunteers were selected. They were randomly allocated to 2 groups with 32 students each (Experimental group and Control group). Subjects were assessed at the beginning and end of 30 days of intervention (Surya namaskar or Physical Exercise) using a Digit Letter Substitution Task. Results: The data were normally distributed and the baseline data across the groups were not statistically different (p>.05). The pre-post data within each group was analyzed using a paired‘t’test. There was a significant increase in number of letters substituted per digits in both yoga (p .05). Conclusion: Physical activity given regularly in a structured manner followed by supine rest improves the process of attention.