The impact of participation in yoga programs on health and wellness for teenagers with visual impairments

The purpose of this study was to explore thoughts, feelings, and perceptions of teenagers with a visual impairment, their parents, and their orientation and mobility specialists regarding the impact that participation in group yoga classes or programs have on individuals with a visual impairment and their current physical health, mental health, and overall wellness. Further exploration within this specific research area was necessitated by the fact that most studies that focus on yoga and individuals with visual impairments focus on individual researcher’s experiences rather than the experiences of the participants. In addition, minimal research is found regarding the use of yoga and those with visual impairments beyond a focus on the attainment of motor skills. A qualitative research design was used for this study in an effort to uncover and explore the unique experiences of the participants. The study included four cases that contained three individuals per case for a total of twelve participants. Each case was comprised as follows: a teenaged student who is visually impaired, their parent or guardian, and their orientation and mobility instructor. Data was collected through use of interviews and the researcher’s reflexive journal. This study uncovered a variety of advantages to participation in yoga programs that specifically may benefit physical health, mental health, and overall wellness. Thus, further revealing valuable information and insights into the world of those with visual impairments to improve lives, wellness and attainment of improved orientation and mobility skills.