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Chapter 9
DOI: 10.4018/978-1-7998-3069-6.ch009
ABSTRACT
Neurodevelopmental disorders (NDDs) are birth imperfections that cause dysfunction in cognitive and
sensory processes and impairment in motor function, communication, and behavior. The major factors
responsible for increasing incidence of NDDs are genetic, psychosocial, and excessive use of drugs. Yoga
alleviates neurological problems and NDDs. Asana is a physical movement with breath awareness that
facilitates the development of body awareness, concentration, and memory and provides vital energy
for children with neurodevelopmental disability. Yoga therapy improves sensory coordination and motor
imitations that enable persons with cognitive disabilities to make meaningful response by the integration
of senses and functions of central nervous system.
INTRODUCTION
The global estimate for disability is raised due to increasing stress, chronic illness or chronic psychologi-
cal distress in parents. World Health Organization estimates that 15% of the world’s population live with
some form of disability, of whom 2-4% experience significant difficulties in cognitive function (Suresh,
Yoga Therapy on
Cognitive Function in
Neurodevelopmental Disorders
Artchoudane Soccalingam
https://orcid.org/0000-0002-7826-0430
Center for Yogic Sciences, Aarupadai Veedu Medical College and Hospital, India & Vinayaka
Mission’s Research Foundation, India
Meena Ramanathan
Centre for Yoga Therapy Education and Research, Sri Balaji Vidyapeeth, India
Ananda Balayogi Bhavanani
Centre for Yoga Therapy Education and Research, Sri Balaji Vidyapeeth, India