Most yoga teachers focus on the benefits of the poses (also known as asanas), and instead of using their Sanskrit names, use generic terms for them. Names of poses include cat, cow, boat, tree, bridge, and downward-facing dog, which make it easy and fun for kids to learn! Here's how your kids could benefit from the stretches, breathing exercises, and mind-body connections yoga has to offer.
Flexibility, Strength, and Balance
The first benefit of yoga for kids is that, over time, flexibility and strength can considerably increase. Strong, flexible muscles enable agility, dexterity, and balance. Yoga introduces children to moving muscles in new ways and challenges them to become more aware of each body part.
Focus and Concentration
Not only does yoga have physical benefits, but also it has a tremendous amount of mental benefits. One of the most important elements to a good practice is clearing the mind and focusing on the task at hand. Even if a pose is difficult, children learn to breathe through it and stay calm and concentrated. These concentration techniques can be transferred to a school environment, where kids may find it easier to stay focused on their work, and in turn, get better grades.
Mind-Body Coordination
Yoga enhances the mind-body connection as well as coordination. It integrates the functions of the mind and body into a union, hence the name "yoga" – derived from the Sanskrit words meaning yoke, or join. Certain postures are intended to balance out the chemicals in the brain in order to improve mental health. This, in addition to awareness of the body, can help children stay calm and aware of their bodies.
Self-Esteem and Self-Empowerment
In addition to awareness, yoga poses are meant to teach sense of self. When a child has worked hard to finally master a pose, it gives him or her confidence and a boost of self-esteem. These values can be taken off the mat as well, as the child learns that hard work can pay off and the effort is worth it in any situation.
Improvements in Children with Special Needs
Multiple studies have found that yoga can be beneficial for children with ADHD and autism. It helps to reduce stress and aggression, as well as aid in development.
The great thing about yoga is that children (and you!) can practice it anywhere. Yoga can help children become strong, brave, compassionate and mindful, and empower them to continue to practice these values off the mat, in school, and in everyday life.
Stretching, poses, and learning to focus on the breath relieves muscle tension and promotes mindfulness in children. For kids with chronic conditions who may be experiencing higher levels of stress, the benefits of yoga for kids help them deal positively with stress and anxiety.
A few key benefits of yoga for kids include:
- increased flexibility
- increased muscle strength and tone
- improved respiration, energy and vitality
- maintaining a balanced metabolism
- weight reduction
- cardio and circulatory health
- improved athletic performance
- protection from injury
Kids can do yoga as soon as they learn how to walk. There are no contraindications. However, the types of exercises and length of sessions have to be adapted to their age and attention span.
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