Happy 2025! During January, one of my main themes in my yoga classes will be setting an intention in your yoga practice. Children are actually very insightful when introduced to this topic. I love hearing about the intentions they set for themselves during our classes.
What is an intention in yoga??
Setting an intention in yoga means focusing your mind and spirit on a specific goal or purpose for your practice. It creates a meaningful connection between your body and mind, guiding your movements and breathing. This practice encourages mindfulness and helps cultivate a sense of awareness and clarity. When you set an intention, you align your energy towards personal growth, healing, or simply being present in the moment. This alignment makes your yoga experience more fulfilling and impactful.
How to teach intention to kids
- Explain it in simple terms. Use language they understand. Give an example, “I am going to set my intention on having fun today in yoga class.” or ” My intention today is I am going to focus on finding peace.”
- Encourage them to think about what they want to feel doing class or what they hope to achieve.
- Use fun activities like drawing or sharing stories to help them express their intentions.
- Make it interactive by having them say their intention aloud or write it down on a piece of paper.
- Remind them to focus on their intention during class, reinforcing the idea that it guides their experience.
- Keep it light and playful to keep their interest and understanding.
Why teach intentions?
Setting an intention reaches presence by encouraging individuals to focus on the moment and their feelings. This theme can be taught for incorporation into their lives off of their yoga mats.
I love teaching intentions (different than resolutions!) in January. Children come into the new year with an energized outlook and I think the two topics complement one another.
Resolutions are often specific goals or changes people want to achieve, usually tied to habits. Intentions are broader and focus on the mindset or feelings one wants to cultivate. Resolutions can feel rigid, while intentions allow for flexibility and growth.
What themes are you teaching to in January? Some other ideas are here.
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