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The contribution of yoga to the entrepreneurial potential of university students: a SEM approach

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Abstract

The literature suggests that all entrepreneurs share certain psychological and cognitive characteristics. Yoga is currently experiencing a surge in popularity due to both the physical and psychological benefits gained by yogi (practitioners of yoga). Irrespective of its more philosophical dimension, changes attributable to yoga have been identified in individuals’ psychological and behavioural patterns. It is in this context that this study analyses the characteristics associated both with entrepreneurs and yogis, seeking to specifically understand the respective personal attributes or the psychological and cognitive predispositions of both groups. The results of this study demonstrate that students who do engage in yoga show a propensity towards or strengthening of the psychological and cognitive attributes that are commonly associated with an entrepreneurial profile. Thus the study suggests that if entrepreneurial behaviour is a priority, then yoga should be integrated as a compulsory subject into general education from the primary school onwards.

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Notes

  1. http://www.businessweek.com/magazine/content/03_30/b3843076.htm, consulted on December 15, 2008.

  2. http://www.yogajournal.com/lifestyle/294?page=2, consulted on December 15, 2008.

  3. Self-actualization satisfies most of the basic needs for safety, love, belongingness, capacity for spontaneous behaviour and respect. It’s also an active process of being and becoming increasingly inner-directed and integrated at the levels of thinking, feeling and bodily response.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Department of Economic, Sociology and Management, Research Unit CETRAD, University of Trás-os-Montes e Alto Douro, Vila Real, Portugal

    Carla Susana Marques

  2. Department of Business and Economics, Research Unit NECE, University of Beira Interior, Covilhã, Portugal

    João Ferreira & Ricardo Gouveia Rodrigues

  3. University of Porto, Porto, Portugal

    Mariza Ferreira

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  1. Carla Susana Marques
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  2. João Ferreira
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  3. Ricardo Gouveia Rodrigues
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  4. Mariza Ferreira
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Correspondence to João Ferreira.

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Marques, C.S., Ferreira, J., Rodrigues, R.G. et al. The contribution of yoga to the entrepreneurial potential of university students: a SEM approach. Int Entrep Manag J 7, 255–278 (2011). https://doi.org/10.1007/s11365-010-0157-9

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