Yoga, Physical Education, and Self-Esteem

Abstract

Researchers studied increases in self-esteem of eighth-grade students after participation in regular physical education and yoga-enhanced physical education classes. Self-esteem was measured by the Coopersmith Self-Esteem Inventory. The Coopersmith Self-Esteem Inventory was given pre, mid, and post test in both the experimental and control group. The results showed that over the course of the eightweek intervention, self-esteem did increase in both the experimental and control groups. There was no significant difference in self-esteem between regular physical education activities and yoga. The study revealed the importance of physical activity, including yoga, for enhancing self-esteem. Theories for why self-esteem increased over time are discussed in the study.