Effects of Yogic Practices on Personality Traits of College students
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Abstract
Background: - Yoga is a holistic practice known to influence mental and physical well-being, making it an effective tool for personality development. College students often face stress, academic pressure, and emotional challenges that influence their personality. By engaging in regular yoga practice, students can foster traits such as emotional stability, mindfulness, resilience, and self-awareness.
Objectives of the study: - This study investigates the effects of yoga on the personality traits of college students, focusing on the "Big Five" personality dimensions—openness, conscientiousness, extraversion, agreeableness, and neuroticism.
Methodology: - In this study fifty college students with age range between 18 to 24 years were randomly selected and allocated into two groups (i) experimental group (n=25) and (ii) non-experimental group (n=25). All the participants were studying in a graduated college which was randomly selected among colleges in Gwalior, India. The experimental group practiced Yoga, 50 minutes daily for three months continuously. During this period no intervention had provided to the non-experimental group. Assessments were made before and after three months Both the groups were assessed using Big Five Personality Inventory questionnaire. Paired t-tests were employed to evaluate the pre- and post-intervention differences.
Results: - The findings revealed significant improvements in emotional stability (reduced neuroticism), increased openness to experiences, and enhanced conscientiousness, indicating that yoga can positively influence personality traits.
Conclusions: -This study underscores yoga's potential as a transformative practice for personality development among college students. By fostering emotional stability, self-discipline, and adaptability, yoga can equip students with essential tools to navigate academic and personal challenges. Integrating yoga into college curricula may serve as an effective strategy for promoting holistic growth and mental well-being.