The Benefits Of Yoga For Kids

By Cara S Burnaby


Many children are not getting enough exercise and this has a lot of parents concerned. Sedentary lifestyles can lead to all types of health problems in later years, and now is the time to do something about it. This is one of many reasons to look into the benefits of yoga for kids.

Yoga can benefit the body and mind, and young bodies and minds receive the same good things from the exercises as adults. The postures help one increase body awareness. Coordination improves and exercise is a great way to reduce stress. Postures are great for increasing joint flexibility, and although young bodies are naturally supple, they can lose that suppleness over time. Qualified instructors know that it is important to keep everything simple in the beginning. They focus on perfect technique as opposed to exposing children to a lot of poses at one time. This creates a gradual learning curve and avoids frustration.

When children learn new things it enriches their lives. An exercise program is an excellent break from school work, video games, and computers. New experiences open up the mind and allow inner growth. Exercise raises fitness levels and boost self confidence.

The benefits of yoga for kids extend into the world of sports. Not everyone is talented in football, baseball, tennis, or other sports. In fact, some children may have little interest in these things. Still, children need a physical outlet and it can be expressed in a noncompetitive and healthy way. This helps youngsters deal with all the pressures that school and social situations place upon them.

It is never too early to expose young minds and bodies to the pleasures of yoga. That is why you will find some excellent mother and baby classes. It may not appear to be beneficial at first, but within a few years children will become used to the activities and will enjoy them. There are some good classes for small children that are age appropriate and easy for them to participate in and enjoy.

When you check into kid's classes, make sure that they are taught by a certified teacher. This insures that your children will get the most from the class, and it will be conducted in a lighthearted manner that is easy for kids to understand and enjoy. If the class is only for children ask if you can stay and watch, as this is the best way to evaluate the class.

If you cannot find classes near your home, try creating your own home class. Get mats for you and the children and choose music that they enjoy. In fact, let them choose the songs. Begin with easy to learn and understand poses and breathing. Three part breath exercises are good to start with.

The benefits of yoga for kids are far reaching and many postures are suitable. For instance, you may wish to try the "Cat Stretch" or the "Pose of the Dog". The "Tree" and the "Cobra" are very good for stretching. The "Butterfly pose works well, and you can start and finish with the "Corpse".




About the Author: