Effect of Online Yoga on Child Health During COVID-19 Pandemic: A Qualitative Account from Parents.

Background and Objectives: An individual develops socioemotional and cognitive abilities during childhood and adolescence. The COVID-19 pandemic has had a negative effect on the physical, psychological, social, and cultural health of children. Yoga has been observed to be helpful for children in enhancing their physical and mental health during the COVID-19 pandemic. The current article aims to understand the effect of yoga on children's health during the COVID-19 pandemic. Methods: The study used a qualitative method and an exploratory design. The data were collected through in-depth interviews using a semistructured interview guide. Results: Ten themes emerged from the thematic analysis. The major themes included the physical, psychological, and social benefits of yoga on children's health; physical, environmental, and cognitive barriers; and facilitators to practicing yoga. Conclusion: The parents felt that yoga was beneficial for children in various dimensions. Schools and academic organizations could develop online yoga programs tailored for children and also integrate them into the curriculum, allowing children to practice regularly.