Exploring Yoga’s Impact on Student Wellbeing: A Thematic Analysis with Implications for Holistic Education

Background: Modern university students are grappling with significant challenges, including widespread feelings of isolation in the fast-moving, competitive environment of today’s capitalist society, alongside escalating academic pressures (Tang et al., 2019; Robotham & Julian, 2006). These factors contribute to an increase in anxiety, stress, and depressive symptoms among students (Bouteyre et al., 2007; Dyson and Renk, 2006) Objectives: This study investigates how regular participation in yoga, facilitated through engagement in an institutional wellness club activities over a span of six months, contributes to improving students’ mental well-being. Methods: Employing a purposive snowball sampling technique, we conducted structured interviews with 43 students, analyzing their responses thematically to identify patterns and insights into their experiences with yoga (Taylor, 2005). Results: Findings reveal significant student struggles with stress and isolation but also highlight the profound impacts of yoga in alleviating these issues. Key benefits noted include reduced stress, increased feelings of fulfillment, and the positive influence of yogic role models. Conclusions: The integration of yoga into educational curricula emerges as a promising tool for managing anxiety and stress among students. By promoting yoga, educational institutions, policymakers, and mental health professionals can foster a more holistic approach to student welfare, academic success, and personal development.