Growing up in urban communities, such as East or West Baltimore, can be challenging due to limited resources, high rates of unemployment, homelessness, and crime. Research has shown that children and adolescents who grow up in poor neighborhoods often face developmental challenges in the areas of social, emotional, and cognitive development.

Traumatic and stressful experiences are common among urban youth, and range from major life events such as child abuse or divorce, to chronic interpersonal stress like family conflict, to daily hassles such as lack of transportation. These experiences have been identified as risk factors for a range of psychological problems, including internalizing and externalizing issues.

Furthermore, the risk of academic failure, school dropout, school bullying, and aggression in response to exposure to traumatic events is higher for youth growing up in high-poverty neighborhoods. Unfortunately, despite their increased risk for psychological problems, urban youth are less likely to receive help.

To address these challenges, self-regulation skills and coping mechanisms are essential. Each day, both adults and children face stressful events that require regulation skills.

Research suggests that participating in yoga can benefit individuals both mentally and physically. According to studies by the American College of Sports Medicine, yoga strengthens and lengthens muscles while providing a total body workout. It also enhances overall fitness, boosting strength, flexibility, and heart health. Additionally, yoga improves overall bone health and has even been proven to help teens with irritable bowel syndrome.

Aside from the physical health benefits, yoga has major mental potential. For instance, students with attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder have benefited from yoga as it helps them concentrate. Studies have also found that students improve their attitudes toward themselves and their behavior (as seen in the vastly lower rate of discipline referrals) through participation in yoga classes. Students report increased self-esteem and a boost in overall mood.