Friday, March 21, 2025

Young Adult Health Crisis in Selangor, Malaysia: Can Yoga Help?

Yoga instructor balancing with one hand on the floor, one leg bent, demonstrating strength, flexibility, and focus in a yoga pose.
Author

Abstract 
The rising prevalence of physical health issues among young adults in Selangor, Malaysia, including chronic pain, fatigue, and stress-related ailments, highlights the need for holistic interventions. Despite substantial evidence supporting yoga’s benefits for physical resilience, flexibility, and pain management, it remains underutilized. This article examines the role of yoga as a complementary health approach, drawing insights from direct observations, data collection, and a review of peer-reviewed and medical literature.

Findings indicate that integrating yoga into mainstream healthcare and daily routines can significantly enhance physical well-being. However, adoption remains limited due to parental skepticism and insufficient advocacy from medical professionals. Addressing these gaps through greater awareness, education, and integration into healthcare practices is essential for promoting yoga as a viable preventive and complementary health strategy.

Keywords: Selangor, Malaysia; young adult health; yoga; physical health; holistic well-being; preventive healthcare; parental perceptions; healthcare integration.

Introduction
Two decades ago, health crises were predominantly associated with the older generation, typically those above the age of 50. In fact, individuals in their 60s and even 70s were often still capable of leading independent lives, engaging in daily activities, and contributing to household tasks such as cooking and cleaning. This generation exhibited remarkable resilience, maintaining mobility and self-sufficiency well into their later years.

However, the same cannot be said for the current generation of young adults, who are increasingly experiencing a wide range of health issues. Alarmingly, this crisis is not confined to young adults alone but extends to even younger age groups. As the 21st century progresses, reports on the rising prevalence of health-related struggles have become an almost daily occurrence. This escalating crisis shows no signs of abating, and projections suggest that the prevalence of health issues among young adults will continue to rise.

Research Methodology
For the purpose of this study, young adults are defined as individuals between the ages of 18 and 35. This age range was selected to analyze whether health-related issues originate in earlier years (before 18) and to examine potential long-term consequences if no preventive measures are taken. Understanding how health deteriorates beyond the age of 35 is crucial, as neglecting early signs may lead to chronic health issues or, in severe cases, premature mortality. This study specifically focuses on urban areas in Selangor, Malaysia, as health crises among young adults may vary across different regions and between urban and rural populations.

Research suggests that health-seeking behaviours and accessibility to wellness interventions differ significantly between these demographics, making it essential to assess urban health challenges independently (Yusof et al., 2022). While the findings are cantered on Selangor, Malaysia, they may also be applicable to other modern cities worldwide, where similar health trends are observed.

A qualitative research methodology was employed, utilizing observation, in-depth interviews, and informal discussions. This approach aligns with established qualitative research methods in healthcare, which emphasize understanding human behavior and experiences through non-numerical data collection (Sharma et al., 2021). Data was gathered through the author’s professional experience as the founder of Nava’s Zen, a yoga instructor, coach, and counsellor.

Insights were obtained from direct interactions with clients during yoga, coaching, and counseling sessions, particularly in understanding their health challenges. Additionally, input from older clients (aged 45 and above) provided valuable retrospective perspectives, as many expressed regrets over neglecting their health during their younger years. They highlighted issues such as stiffness, reduced flexibility, overweight and obesity, and weight accumulation in specific areas like the abdomen.

Furthermore, informal conversations with clients and members of the community revealed widespread struggles among young adults aged 18 to 35 with various health concerns, some of which have escalated into crises. The study also incorporates observations from social media, where individuals within this age group openly or indirectly share their health struggles, including frequent hospital visits and, in extreme cases, premature deaths. Notably, recent studies highlight the rising prevalence of young-onset hypertension (YOH) in Malaysia, which further underscores the need to address early health issues among young adults before they progress into life-threatening conditions (Kumar et al., 2023).

In addition to primary qualitative data, secondary sources such as online articles, academic journals, and relevant literature were reviewed to further support the findings. This research methodology facilitated an in-depth exploration of the causes contributing to the health crisis among young adults in Selangor, reinforcing the urgent need for preventive measures and early interventions.

Key Drivers of the Health Crisis
Declining Physical Activity Among Young Adults
A significant contributor to the health crisis among young adults is the decline in physical activity. From an early age, academic success is prioritized over physical well-being. The education system emphasizes long hours of studying, both in school and at home, leaving little time for movement. Young adults today are significantly less active than previous generations, with sedentary behavior increasing due to academic and work commitments (Kwon et al., 2021).

As young adults transition to higher education and the workforce, sitting for extended periods becomes the norm, whether in classrooms, offices, or while commuting. While some may have participated in sports during their school years, many disengage from physical activity over time. Studies show that once structured physical activities end, many young adults struggle to maintain regular exercise habits, leading to health issues such as weight gain and reduced flexibility (Smith et al., 2020). If this trend continues, they face a higher risk of chronic diseases in later years.

The Long-Term Effects of Early Sports Pressure
On the other end of the spectrum, some young adults who were actively engaged in sports during childhood completely abandon physical activity. They were pushed into competitive sports by parents eager for achievements and recognition. However, excessive pressure to perform can lead to early burnout, with some individuals developing negative associations with exercise (Howie et al., 2022).

Instead of fostering lifelong fitness habits, the intense focus on competition often causes former athletes to disengage from exercise entirely. Studies suggest that young adults who were pressured into rigorous training as children are more likely to view exercise as a burden rather than an enjoyable activity (Howie et al., 2022). This shift from an active to a sedentary lifestyle further exacerbates the growing health crisis among young adults.

Decline in Household Chores and Physical Activity
In the past, children actively participated in household chores, contributing to their daily physical activity. Tasks such as mopping, cleaning, and watering plants were integral to their upbringing, ensuring movement and engagement from an early age. Each child had designated household responsibilities, fostering both discipline and physical exertion. However, contemporary trends indicate a significant decline in children's involvement in household chores, with only 28% of parents assigning such tasks to their children, compared to 82% in previous generations (Braun Research, 2014). This reduction in domestic responsibilities limits opportunities for physical activity, potentially impacting the development of essential life skills and overall well-being (Rende, 2021).

This trend often continues into adulthood, where many young adults rely on domestic helpers or parents to manage household responsibilities. Additionally, demanding work schedules contribute to physical inactivity, as individuals cite exhaustion as a reason for avoiding household chores. On days off, rather than engaging in movement-based tasks, there is a preference for passive activities, further reducing physical activity levels. The increasing automation of tasks such as cleaning and laundry, or their outsourcing, results in a lack of daily physical movement, which, over time, contributes to poor circulation, muscle stiffness, and a decline in overall mobility (Lachman et al., 2018).

Technology-Driven Lifestyle and Physical Inactivity
The rapid advancement of technology has significantly reshaped daily habits, particularly among young adults. From an early age, children are introduced to online learning, spending long hours seated in front of screens - whether on laptops, tablets, or mobile phones. This sedentary pattern continues through higher education and into professional life, reinforcing a lifestyle with minimal physical movement. The repetitive nature of screen-based activities, such as scrolling and typing, replaces dynamic body movements, leading to muscle stiffness, reduced flexibility, and chronic discomfort in areas like the neck, shoulders, and hands. Over time, these habits contribute to fatigue and a decline in overall energy levels (Stahl et al., 2021).

Beyond academics, excessive mobile phone usage has become a dominant pastime. Young adults engage in prolonged screen time, whether scrolling through social media, watching videos, or gaming. What initially starts as a casual habit often develops into dependency, further sidelining physical activity. Unlike previous generations, where outdoor play and active hobbies were part of daily routines, today's young adults often neglect exercise, unaware of the gradual impact on their long-term health. This shift in lifestyle contributes to an increasing prevalence of health concerns, from muscle stiffness to early-onset fatigue, without individuals realizing the cumulative effects until much later in life (Twenge and Campbell, 2018).

Unhealthy Stress Relief Choices
When it comes to relieving stress, young adults turn to social media, spending hours scrolling through content, sharing their lifestyles, and occupying themselves with online distractions. This habit, often ingrained from childhood - thanks to parents providing laptops, tablets, and smartphones under the pretext of education or keeping kids engaged - continues into adulthood. Research indicates that excessive social media use can negatively impact mental well-being, leading to increased anxiety, sleep disturbances, and reduced physical activity (Abi-Jaoude, Naylor & Pignatiello, 2020).

In Malaysia, studies have shown that urbanization and associated lifestyle changes have contributed to a rise in mental health issues among young adults, with factors such as low social capital and higher rates of pollution increasing the risk of psychological complications (Ng et al., 2021). As a result, excessive screen time has become a normalized stress-relief method, contributing to rising health issues among young adults.

Beyond social media, socializing through clubbing, pubbing, and drinking has also become a go-to stress reliever. Late-night outings, alcohol consumption, and excessive eating - often followed by late-night suppers - contribute to weight gain, toxin buildup, and other long-term health consequences. Even casual dining with friends, though seemingly harmless, often revolves around indulging in high-calorie meals rather than making healthier choices. These habits disrupt sleep patterns, leading to fatigue and poor overall well-being.

Another common way young adults relieve stress is through binge-watching movies or TV shows, often accompanied by mindless snacking. Whether at the cinema or slumped on a sofa at home, watching back-to-back movies while continuously eating has become a routine. Some even lie in bed with their laptops, barely moving for hours, further reinforcing a sedentary lifestyle. Studies suggest that binge-watching is associated with emotional dependence, reduced sleep quality, and prolonged sedentary behaviour, all of which contribute to poor health outcomes (Flayelle et al., 2020). The lack of physical activity in these stress-relief habits only deepens the negative impact on their health.

Surprisingly, physical activities like yoga or exercise rarely make it into the picture as a way to unwind. Even when encouraged by parents to adopt a more active lifestyle, young adults remain disinterested. Their priorities lean toward social gatherings, partying, and food-centric outings rather than engaging in fitness activities with friends. This avoidance of movement further exacerbates the growing health crisis among young adults, making it clear that a shift in mindset is urgently needed.

The Impact of Unhealthy Eating Habits
With more mothers pursuing careers, home-cooked meals have become less common, making dining out, takeaways, and online food orders the norm for many families. It is now routine to see families regularly eating at restaurants, with fast food often being the preferred choice. Young children quickly adapt to this lifestyle, easily ordering meals online - often opting for fried, processed, or high-calorie foods. Parents, too, indulge in these habits, reinforcing unhealthy dietary patterns that persist into adulthood. This shift in eating habits has been linked to increased rates of obesity and diet-related diseases, as children who grow up in environments where convenience foods are prioritized tend to carry these habits into adulthood (Morrissey, Dunifon & Kalil, 2011).

Compounding this issue is the increasing normalization of obesity and excessive weight gain. Social media platforms often celebrate body positivity in ways that discourage discussions about the health risks associated with being overweight. While self-confidence and body acceptance are important, the movement has also created a culture where concerns about obesity are dismissed as body shaming. As a result, many young adults do not feel the need to regulate their diets or engage in physical activity, further exacerbating health risks.

Family eating habits also play a crucial role. In households where parents are overweight or obese, children are more likely to adopt similar patterns, leading to a generational cycle of unhealthy eating and inactivity. Over time, these habits contribute to serious health issues, including obesity-related conditions such as chronic fatigue, joint pain, back problems, and even increased risks of life-threatening diseases like cancer. Additionally, the combination of poor diet and lack of physical activity leads to low energy levels, disrupted sleep patterns, and even excessive snoring.

Research has shown that poor dietary choices and sedentary lifestyles in childhood significantly increase the risk of chronic health problems later in life (Morrissey, Dunifon & Kalil, 2011). Unchecked, these habits create a long-term health crisis among young adults, emphasizing the urgent need for awareness and intervention in dietary choices.

The Struggle with Mental Health
The relentless pressure to excel - both academically and professionally - has long taken a toll on young adults' mental health. From an early age, many are pushed by parents who believe that excelling in every aspect of life is a necessity. This ingrained mindset follows them into adulthood, creating an unending cycle of pressure to perform. Whether in education, career, or social status, young adults feel the weight of expectations, leading to heightened stress, anxiety, and, in severe cases, even suicidal tendencies. Despite increasing awareness of mental health issues, suicide rates among young adults continue to climb, a trend that has been evident for over a decade (Hunt & Eisenberg, 2010).

Compounding this issue is the lack of resilience among young adults who have been raised in environments where everything has been done for them. Many struggle to cope with real-world challenges, unable to handle setbacks or failures. Social comparison further fuels this struggle, as they constantly measure their success against peers - who is earning more, achieving more, or living a seemingly better life. The pressure to meet unrealistic societal standards has only intensified with social media, where curated online lives create a distorted sense of reality (Steers et al., 2014). This endless race for validation, combined with the pressures of corporate life, often leaves young adults feeling mentally exhausted.

Adding to the burden are physical health issues stemming from a sedentary lifestyle. Chronic pain, fatigue, and other unresolved health problems contribute to excessive worrying, pushing young adults further into mental distress. Poor physical well-being has been closely linked to increased psychological distress, as ongoing health struggles create a cycle of frustration and mental fatigue (Kessler et al., 2005). The inability to recover quickly from health setbacks only adds to their anxiety, as many have been conditioned to expect instant results in every aspect of life. Over time, this constant stress, coupled with physical discomfort, leads to isolation, withdrawal, and, in some cases, complete mental breakdowns.

Understanding Yoga: The Missing Link
Despite yoga's well-documented benefits for the body, mind, and soul, there remains a significant lack of awareness and understanding - especially among parents. Yoga, an ancient practice backed by scientific and medical research, is known to enhance overall well-being, particularly in reducing stress and anxiety. A study by Neumark-Sztainer et al. (2018) found that young adults who practiced yoga reported a more positive body image and lower levels of psychological distress. Yet, many parents dismiss its value, failing to introduce it to their children, who then grow into young adults without recognizing its benefits.

The root of this issue lies in parental priorities. Many focus on academic and career achievements, believing success equates to stability. As a result, yoga is seen as non-essential, and even parents themselves often neglect it, citing time constraints or a lack of relevance in their lives. This mindset trickles down to young adults, who mirror the same indifference.

Interestingly, yoga enjoys widespread recognition on social media, with many praising its benefits. However, when it comes to actual practice, few take the initiative. Unlike competitive sports that bring social recognition or career advantages, yoga offers no tangible rewards in terms of status. Until parents shift their perspective and acknowledge yoga’s role in holistic well-being, young adults are unlikely to embrace it as part of their daily lives.

The Overlooked Benefits of Yoga
Yoga offers a wide range of benefits, from enhancing physical fitness to promoting overall well-being. As a movement-based practice, it keeps the body active, strengthens muscles, and improves flexibility. Inverted yoga poses, in particular, boost blood circulation, reducing stiffness and numbness while ensuring adequate oxygen supply to the heart and body. Telles, Singh, and Balkrishna (2021) highlight that yoga is particularly beneficial for rehabilitation, as it improves mobility and reduces chronic pain.

Dynamic styles like Ashtanga and Vinyasa yoga, often compared to sports such as football or volleyball, provide a cardiovascular workout while burning calories and reducing body fat. For those seeking a gentler approach, wellness and Zen yoga focus on blood circulation and flexibility. Regular stretching during yoga sessions also tones and firms the body, reducing flabbiness.

Beyond physical fitness, yoga serves as a natural anti-aging remedy. Improved blood circulation enhances skin radiance, while poses that engage the neck help smooth out wrinkles over time. Specific asanas like Bow Pose, Cobra Pose, and Boat Pose target belly fat, contributing to a toned physique. Woodyard (2011) notes that yoga enhances overall quality of life by promoting relaxation and reducing stress-related aging effects.

Despite these benefits, yoga is often overlooked in favor of other fitness routines. Many fail to recognize that yoga offers comparable, if not greater, advantages for the body, making it a powerful yet underrated form of physical activity.

Yoga’s Role in Mental Well-Being
Beyond its physical benefits, yoga serves as a natural remedy for mental health. The activation of various body parts through yoga poses triggers the release of happy hormones, fostering a sense of satisfaction with one's body. This physical transformation positively impacts mental well-being, instilling confidence and self-assurance. When young adults see the results of their effort and commitment, they not only feel physically healthier but also mentally stronger, shaping their personality and resilience. Research supports that those with a healthy body tend to have a more positive mindset and higher self-confidence (Ross and Thomas, 2010).

Yoga’s emphasis on pranayama, or breathwork, makes it a powerful tool for mental wellness. Controlled breathing techniques help calm the mind, enhance clarity, and promote emotional stability. By practicing slow, intentional inhaling and exhaling, young adults develop the ability to manage stress, prioritize effectively, and cultivate resilience in their daily lives. Yoga’s breathwork techniques can significantly reduce anxiety and improve overall mental health (Kirkwood et al., 2005).

Additionally, yoga incorporates mindfulness and awareness, synchronizing breath with movement. Even a brief 10-minute practice can help young adults ground themselves, connect with their inner selves, and discover a sense of inner peace. This grounding process fosters mental resilience, preparing them to navigate challenges in academic, professional, and personal life. Meditation, an integral part of yoga, further enhances breath awareness, equipping young adults with tools to manage anxiety, nervousness, and panic attacks (Field, 2011).

However, these benefits are only possible if parents encourage yoga from an early age. When young adults experience firsthand the transformation in their breath, body, mind, and soul, they begin prioritizing their overall well-being. This foundation allows them to sustain a lifelong commitment to yoga, reaping its physical and mental rewards for years to come.

The Reality of Neglecting Yoga
In urban Selangor, many parents remain unaware of yoga’s potential, preventing young adults from experiencing its benefits. When health crises arise, parents rush their children to doctors, investing heavily in medical treatments and medications. However, yoga is rarely considered as a preventive or complementary solution. Despite growing evidence, many still overlook yoga as a scientifically backed tool for mental well-being (Cramer et al., 2013).

Often, what appears as a health issue - such as headaches, migraines, or severe body aches - stems from stress and a lack of physical activity. Yet, parents may overlook the impact of academic pressure and life’s demands, assuming these ailments are purely medical rather than stress-induced. As stress levels rise, young adults may exhibit erratic behavior, experiencing isolation, hyperactivity, or mood swings. Instead of addressing the root cause, the solution often leads back to prescriptions. In severe cases, psychiatric medications are introduced, leading to dependency, lethargy, prolonged sleep, and social withdrawal.

Despite mounting evidence of yoga’s effectiveness in managing stress, anxiety, and overall well-being, it remains largely ignored. Until parents recognize yoga as a vital tool for health - alongside conventional medicine - young adults will continue to miss out on a holistic approach to their well-being.

What Needs to Change
Despite yoga’s well-documented benefits for physical health, mental well-being, and overall resilience, it remains undervalued- especially among urban parents in Selangor. While discussions on mindfulness and mental health are trending, yoga, the very foundation of these concepts, is often dismissed.

Parents, prioritizing academic excellence and career success, often overlook yoga as an essential tool for their young adults’ well-being. Instead, they rush to doctors for treatments and medication at the first sign of health concerns, without considering yoga as a preventive or complementary solution. Even when stress manifests as migraines, body pain, or mood swings, medical intervention is favored over holistic approaches like yoga. 

This is concerning, as integrating yoga into healthcare can significantly improve mental health by reducing stress, anxiety, and emotional distress, making it an effective complementary practice in clinical settings (Cebolla-Cantabrana et al., 2024). Furthermore, incorporating yoga into healthcare systems has been associated with enhanced patient satisfaction and a more patient-centered approach to mental well-being (Raut, 2024).

The medical community can play a crucial role in changing this mindset. Doctors and healthcare professionals, who hold significant influence over patients' health choices, should actively advocate for yoga as part of treatment plans. By incorporating yoga into wellness programs, medical consultations, and recovery plans, doctors can help shift perceptions, making yoga a recognized and respected practice in mainstream healthcare. Hospitals and clinics can go a step further by offering yoga sessions as part of patient care  - bridging the gap between modern medicine and holistic well-being. 

Conclusion
Yoga stands as a powerful yet often overlooked tool for enhancing mental well-being, particularly among young adults. While its physical benefits are widely recognized, its role in fostering emotional resilience, reducing stress, and improving overall mental health remains underutilized. Despite mounting evidence supporting yoga as an effective complementary approach in healthcare, many parents in urban Selangor continue to prioritize conventional treatments, often neglecting holistic solutions that could benefit their children in the long run.

The reluctance to embrace yoga stems from societal attitudes, misconceptions, and a deep-seated preference for medical interventions. However, integrating yoga into daily life - whether through structured programs in educational institutions, community initiatives, or healthcare settings - can significantly contribute to young adults' well-being. The medical community has a pivotal role to play in bridging this gap, advocating for yoga as part of a comprehensive wellness strategy rather than a mere alternative practice.

Ultimately, shifting perceptions about yoga requires a collective effort from parents, educators, healthcare professionals, and policymakers. When young adults are given the opportunity to experience the transformative effects of yoga firsthand, they are more likely to develop a lifelong commitment to their physical and mental well-being. By fostering a balanced approach that integrates both modern medicine and holistic practices, we can ensure that future generations cultivate resilience, confidence, and a healthier mindset - empowering them to navigate life’s challenges with strength and stability.

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Young Adult Health Crisis in Selangor, Malaysia: Can Yoga Help?

Autho r Ms. Krishnan N, a Zen entrepreneur in her 60s, founded Nava's Zen at 58. With 22 years as a lecturer, including 13 years in the ...