1*PhD scholar, Lovely Professional University, Phagwara. Email: ashwinibheemani@gmail.com
2Associate Professor and Head-Department of Physical Education, Lovely Professional University, Phagwara
Background: Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a neuropsychiatric condition marked by reduced attention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity affecting 5-7% of children worldwide (American Psychiatric Association, 2013). These symptoms can adversely affect a child's academic, social, and emotional well-being. Conventional treatments often involve medications and behavioral therapies, they often yield side effects like insomnia or appetite suppression (Swanson et al., 2007); thus alternative interventions, such as Sukshmavyayama a subtle yoga practice emphasizing mindful movements and relaxation (Harbourside Yoga, 2023), have gained attention for their potential in managing ADHD symptoms.
Objective: This study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of Sukshmavyayama; as a therapeutic intervention for improving ADHD symptoms, focusing on hyperactivity in children.
Method: A randomized controlled trial (RCT) was conducted on children aged 6-12 years diagnosed with ADHD. Participants (N=20) were divided into a Sukshmavyayama intervention group (10) and a control group (10). The intervention group practiced Sukshmavyayama (30-minute sessions, 3 days/week) for six weeks. Symptom severity was measured pre- and post-intervention using the DT-ADHD rating scale, focusing on hyperactivity subscale scores.
Results: A Mann-Whitney U test revealed no significant difference between the Sukshmavyayama and Control groups at pre-test (U = 40.5, p = .467). However, at post-test, the Sukshmavyayama group demonstrated significantly lower hyperactivity scores than the Control group (U = 0.00, p < .001).
Conclusion: The results suggest that Sukshmavyayama is an effective alternative therapy for children with ADHD, improving self-regulation, reducing hyperactivity, and enhancing overall functioning. It offers a non-invasive, accessible intervention for managing ADHD symptoms, which can benefit children, parents, educators, and mental health professionals.
Keywords: adhd, hyperactivity, sukshmavyayama, dt-adhd.
How to cite this article: B Ashwini, Sharma NK. Effect of Sukshmavyayama (Yoga for Relaxation) As a Therapeutic Intervention for Improving Hyperactivity in Children with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder. Int J Drug Deliv Technol. 2026;16(3): 258-263. DOI: 10.25258/ijddt.16.3.31
Source of support: Nil.
Conflict of interest: None