😔 Self-Harm: Supporting Teens Through Yoga

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March is Self-Harm Awareness Month, a time to raise awareness about self-injury and support those who struggle with it. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, up to 30% of teenage girls and 10% of boys have intentionally hurt themselves. The rates of self-harm have increased significantly over the past decade, especially among girls aged 10-14.

Yoga can be a powerful tool in helping teens manage their emotions and reduce self-harm urges.  By practicing yoga, teens learn mindfulness, which helps them stay present and aware of their emotions without acting on them impulsively. Yoga also promotes physical well-being, providing a healthy outlet for stress and negative emotions. The principles of non-violence (ahimsa) and self-compassion in yoga encourage teens to treat themselves with kindness and respect.

Incorporating yoga into a teen's routine can create a sense of control and empowerment, reducing the need to self-harm as a coping mechanism. By creating a supportive and inclusive environment, yoga can help teens build resilience and develop healthier ways to manage their emotions.

IYK® Teens meet in person and online on Sundays at 10:45am PT. Register your teen here.