Students' Self-Control and Self-Efficacy Through Yoga Practices and Their Influences on Academic Performance

Abstract

This study explores the influence of yoga practices on self-control, self-efficacy, and academic performance among female college students at Yunnan Vocational and Technical College of Agriculture. A qualitative approach was employed, involving semi-structured interviews with thirty female students enrolled in yoga courses. The integration of yoga philosophy and Self-Determination Theory (SDT) provided a theoretical framework for examining the potential benefits of yoga practice. Thematic analysis revealed that yoga significantly enhances self-control through mindfulness and self-discipline, improves self-efficacy by fostering a sense of accomplishment and community, and positively impacts academic performance by promoting stress management and focus. These findings suggest that integrating yoga into educational settings can support students' well-being and academic success. However, the study's limitations, including its focus on female participants and potential biases, indicate the need for further research to generalize the results across diverse populations and educational contexts.