It’s International Youth Day! Thought I’d share a photo from the Concurrent Youth Unit at the Centre for Addiction & Mental Health. An inpatient treatment service dedicated to the clinical care of youth, ages 14 to 18 years, with "concurrent disorders": a moderate to severe addiction to substances and accompanying mental health challenges. In this enclosed patio, overlooking the CN Tower, each week we practice trauma-informed yoga.

Below is a list of 23 benefits of yoga that can assist teenagers and youth in everyday life, during stressful adolescent times and for improved mental wellness.

Improves energy levels & moods
Reduces anxiety, tension & stress
Provides calmness & relaxation
Reduces depression & fatigue
Reduces anger & frustration
Improves emotional awareness & regulation
Improves body awareness & body image
Promotes self-care & self-respect
Creates empathy & compassion
Improves outlook on life & optimism
Promotes self-esteem, self-confidence & empowerment
Develops discipline & self-regulation
Reduces cravings & addictive behaviours
Provides an activity away from technology: social media, internet, gaming
Creates an understanding of the mind-body connection
Improves fitness & physical health (including flexibility, strength & posture)
Improves breathing (for physical & emotional well-being)
Teaches components of meditation & mindfulness
Improves attention, focus & concentration
Improves cognitive functioning
Improves academic performance
Builds support & community
Fun!

Click here for more information on the Concurrent Youth Unit program at CAMH. Click here for an article from Psychology Today on the benefits of yoga for youth.