I believe yoga helps children develop a healthy physical body in a fun and safe environment. It stimulates their imagination and confidence. Here are a few things you can keep in mind to help you to introduce your children to yoga and some classes to try with them.
Freedom to learn
Children are big souls in little bodies who learn best from their own experience, and as teachers, we are here to provide the framework and to hold space for them to find their own inner knowledge.
Your own practice
Your own yoga practice is one of the best ways to encourage children to be curious and find their own imagination in yoga.
Start early
Establish yoga early in a child’s life, through gentle massage, bicycle legs, criss-cross arms and lots of music, singing/chanting. As they get older keep it to large motor movements with lots of repetition and fun.
Children are super sensitive, fully-fledged people, with high potency antennae which record every vibration within their vicinity, completely and very deeply – Yogi Bhajan
Partner up
Partnering with a parent is always exciting – don’t be afraid to let your children lead.
Trust their wisdom
Children are intuitive and imaginative little people who know what is good for their body.
Use the breath
It is important to include an awareness of the breath in the poses. It helps to give a moment of stillness and focus.
Get talking
Communication is essential for a child’s mental and physical health, so ask them how the postures feel and let them begin to explore their own felt sense and ways to express themselves.
Yoga for kids program on EkhartYoga
Get on the mat with your kids and begin to explore the breath, Sun Salutations, postures, partner yoga and relaxation together in our Yoga for Kids program on EkhartYoga.
Related:
- Follow our Yoga with teenagers playlist
- Why children are natural yogis
- How to practice AcroYoga with your kids
