Yoga for Kids

With yoga, or intentional movement, your child can override their stress response and learn to develop:

+ Mental focus   + Balance   + Physical focus   + Flexibility   + Strength

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Relaxing the body’s stress response can positively influence areas of their daily life, including:

 

+ Concentration & learning   + Decision making   + Sleep   + Thought organization   + Creative thinking 

+ Confidence and self-esteem   + Controlled reactions   + Self-regulation

Yoga Poses

The physical component of yoga is the exercise of completing and moving through yoga poses and “flows” (a series of poses together) that connects the body, mind, and breath. Yoga poses are designed to open joints as well as stretch and strengthen the muscles. They can also move lymph through the body, which plays an important role in how well the immune system functions. Some poses have specific effects, such as waking up communication between the right and left sides of the brain, or increasing concentration skills.

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Breathing

Breathing can be a powerful tool to help change how your child feels. When they learn to breathe deeply, children can interrupt the stress hormone response and soothe their own nervous system. They can even use their breath to energize their body or clear their minds all by themselves.

 

• A “Take 5” breath can help settle their anxious feelings at school

• Using “Bunny Breaths” can help them concentrate on homework

• Some “Buddy Breathing” with their favorite stuffed animal can calm the mind at the end of the day

Mindfulness

Have you ever seen a child play outside, and pause for a moment while they look up to the sky? They are taking a mindful minute and observing their surroundings. Being present in the moment allows us to see things as they are, without an emotional response. It allows us to be more patient and compassionate towards ourselves and others.

Your child will learn mindfulness practices or activities that focus on using all 5 senses. We will use moments of silence, visualization exercises, and activities that promote intentional movements and thought patterns. Once your child has discovered that place of tranquility within themselves and become more connected through mindfulness activities, they will long to return to that place of stillness. You as the parent can incorporate these practices or activities into your child’s daily routine.​