Mindfulness and yoga practices paired with breathing techniques can enhance cognition and recall abilities by changing the structure and function of the brain. Specifically, these meditative practices help thicken cortical regions related to attention and sensory processing. They also enhance resilience and the ability to build emotional regulation skills to effectively manage stress, gain self-knowledge, and increase empathy and compassion. Scientific research illustrates the positive effects of mindfulness training on mental health, well-being, learning, disabilities, working memory, benefits, concerns, and academic outcomes.

1. Mindfulness & Yoga
Exercise paired with
breathing techniques leads
to enhanced general
cognition, recall abilities
Meditative practices have
the potential to actually
change the structure and
function of the brain in
ways that foster
academic success
Help to thicken cortical
regions of the brain
related to attention and
sensory processing
Enhanced resilience;
Stronger ability to build
emotional regulation skills
to effectively manage
stress, gaining self-
knowledge; increased
empathy and compassion
Mindfulness
Yoga
Learning
Disabilities
Working Memory
Benefits
Learning Concerns
Special Thanks to
Jennifer Schuelke for
her artistic inspiration
Attentional/Focus Issues
Emotional
Social and
Behavioral
Improved communication
and contribution in the
classroom; Promotes and
enhances social skills and
academic outcomes
Yoga as Alternative
Therapy
Scientific research
illustrates the positive
effects of mindfulness
training on mental health
and well-being
Mindfulness supports
climates for learning
and promotes
students' feelings of
belonging while
increasing their levels
of participation and
engagement
Educators are
interested in the
calming, quieting,
focusing
qualities of
mindfulness and yoga
Can positively affect
cognitive functions like
attention, working
memory, and long-term
memory,
improvements in motor
functioning and
executive functioning
Processing Issues
Courtney E. Hoffmann, M.A.
Learning Specialist