The Scientific Interplay of Sports, Human Movement Science, and Yoga in Education and Society: Short Communication

Abstract

This paper presents a comprehensive scientific synthesis of sports science, human movement science, and yoga, positioning their integration as a transformative pathway for enhancing educational and societal well-being. Drawing on evidence from biomechanics, exercise physiology, neuroscience, psychology, and pedagogy, we articulate a multilevel framework that connects embodied practices to cognitive development, executive functioning, emotional regulation, physical literacy, and social cohesion. The proposed Embodied Learning and Social Cohesion (ELSC) model delineates key mechanisms—including motor learning, autonomic regulation, attentional control, psychosocial processes, and cultural norms—through which sports, movement training, and yoga exert synergistic benefits. We outline rigorous research designs, including cluster-randomized trials, longitudinal studies, and mixed-methods approaches, to quantify causal pathways in school and community contexts. The paper further proposes an equity-focused implementation blueprint that embeds integrated embodied curricula into educational systems, prioritizing inclusivity, accessibility, and cultural responsiveness. By bridging scientific evidence with practical policy translation, this work positions embodied learning as a vital component of whole-person education and as a catalyst for resilience, social integration, and long-term civic well-being.