When I was a new mom, I relied heavily on my own yoga practice to help me feel centered, calm and in control of the emotions I was experiencing. When my older daughter grew from a newborn -> infant -> crawler -> toddler, she’d watch me practice and eventually moved around me. She’d crawling under my legs and climb on top of my back or belly. One day she started imitating me and doing some of the poses on her own. This is when we started playing “yoga” together, almost daily.
Her practice didn’t look the same as mine, but we had a lot of fun and I noticed how strong she was getting. As she got older and transitioned to preschool, we moved on to new poses, breathing techniques and another level of connection. The benefits of yoga were tremendous and she enjoyed practicing which made her easily engaged when I suggested we try it again.
The Benefits of Yoga for Kids
I have witnessed firsthand the benefits yoga has made on my own children and the children I teach. It has been a journey (more like a rollercoaster!) and I am so proud to watch their interpretation of yoga in their lives and using it to help them feel calm, centered and in control. They sometimes even remind me, “maybe we should all take a few deep breaths together?” when we need to refocus and regroup when our emotions get intense.
In addition to my firsthand experience, research has proven, yoga provides the following opportunities for children:
- Increases strength and flexibility
- Increases body awareness and control
- Increases self confidence and positive body image
- Decreases anxiety
- Builds focus and concentration
- Provides opportunity to connect with others in a non competitive manner
- Teaches mind-body connection and control (emotional regulation!)
Teaching yoga to children and individuals of all ages and abilities is a passion of mine and I’d love to be a resource. Subscribe to my newsletter below or contact me for any class inquiries!