Role of Yoga in Post-COVID Stress Management in Urban Areas: Analysis of Japan with Reference to India

Human stress is naturally influenced by the environment. Changes in the environment in which people live will directly lead to changes in the causes of stress. Stress has a strong link of urbanization. Due to urbanization, and lack of green spaces, the sports or outdoor activities are often restricted. This is same both in Japan and India. During COVID-19, people had to stay in home and this caused significant increase of stress level among different age groups. The youth groups are possibly the worst sufferer. Through two specific surveys (one among university students, and one adult population) in Japan, this chapter argues the importance of yoga in stress management. The Yoga Association of Japan has been promoting yoga in different groups (including sports people, diet members, different levels of schools and universities, maritime force etc.). It is argued that regular practice of yoga can reduce both physical and mental issues. Yoga can also be considered as a communication platform.