Effects of Yoga on Social Communication, Sensorimotor Skills, Physical Health, and Symptom Severity in Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder: A Systematic Review

Background Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental condition characterized by persistent deficits in social communication, restricted and repetitive behaviors, and frequent comorbid challenges such as motor impairments, gastrointestinal dysfunction, and sleep disturbances. Yoga, a holistic mind–body intervention, has emerged as a promising complementary therapy, yet evidence of its effectiveness in children with ASD remains fragmented. Objective This systematic review aimed to synthesize current evidence on the effects of yoga interventions on social communication, sensorimotor abilities, physical health, and symptom severity in children and adolescents with ASD. Methods A systematic search of PubMed and CINAHL databases was conducted up to August 2025. Eligible studies included randomized controlled trials and clinical trials assessing yoga interventions in children ≤ 18 years with ASD. Data were extracted on study characteristics, intervention protocols, and measured outcomes. Risk of bias was assessed using the Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) critical appraisal tool. Due to heterogeneity, a narrative synthesis was undertaken. Results Of 57 records screened, 7 studies met inclusion criteria (2 RCTs, 5 clinical trials) conducted in the United States, India, and Iran, involving children aged 3–16 years. Yoga interventions varied in duration and format (school-based, structured group programs, or remotely delivered). Findings demonstrated improvements in bilateral coordination, gross motor skills, balance, strength, and flexibility. Significant reductions were observed in autism symptom severity, irritability, social withdrawal, and behavioral dysregulation. Some studies reported improved sleep and gastrointestinal functioning. Social communication and imitation skills were also enhanced, with yoga supporting nonverbal communication, eye contact, and turn-taking. Conclusions Yoga appears to be an effective complementary intervention for children with ASD, with positive effects on motor, social, behavioral, and health outcomes. Despite encouraging results, evidence is limited by small sample sizes, diverse protocols, and heterogeneity of outcome measures. Standardized, large-scale randomized trials are needed to confirm these findings and guide integration of yoga into evidence-based ASD care.