Effectiveness of fitness-yoga for reducing stress levels in higher education institutions under martial law

Stress has become a global public health problem. It is a major source of health problems. Stress impairs the sense of well-being and quality of life, and prolonged stress is known to cause problems with people’s mental and physical health. Prolonged war and martial law conditions lead to increased stress levels. Fitness-yoga offers one possible way to reduce stress. Scientific studies indicate the positive effects of fitness-yoga on health and well-being, as well as on reducing stress levels and its symptoms. The positive effects of this practice on health are explained by its effect on the regulation of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal and sympathetic nervous systems. Biological mechanisms involve the autonomic nervous system and especially the connection between the parasympathetic and sympathetic nervous systems. Psychological mechanisms that relieve stress during fitness-yoga include a more positive attitude towards stress, self-awareness, improved coping mechanisms, a greater sense of control, increased calmness, mindfulness, and self-compassion. In other words, fitness-yoga can be an important life skills tool for learners to manage stress throughout their lives. The purpose of the article - the impact of fitness-yoga classes on reducing stress levels in higher education institutions. Higher education institutions face high levels of stress among students worldwide, and in Ukraine this problem has worsened with the outbreak of full-scale war. High levels of distress negatively affect well-being, academic performance. Higher education institutions are an ideal place to develop stress management skills in students. The use of fitness-yoga is an effective and cost-effective way to provide young people with a preventive resource to access the benefits of fitness-yoga for mental and physical health.