Yoga, breathing exercises can help children with ADHD improve focus

Yoga and breathing exercises can have a positive effect on children with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), find researchers from Ural Federal University in a new study.

Children who attended special yoga classes showed improvement in attention, decreased hyperactivity, and seemed to not get tired easily and could engage in complex activities for longer.

Publishing in the journal 'Biological Psychiatry,' scientists revealed that they used a special breathing exercise based on the development of the diaphragmatic rhythmic deep breathing, called belly breathing as well as body-oriented exercises that focused on "tension-relaxation."

ADHD is a disorder associated with impaired development of the child's nervous system.

The study found that better breathing allows for a better supply of oxygen to the brain, which, in turn, has a beneficial effect on the behaviour and psyche of a child with ADHD.