Yoga helps children see beauty and light within themselves. Yoga allows children to feel more comfortable within their bodies. A child who learns yoga, mindfulness and relaxation will develop essential skills that will stay with them and promote a lifetime of health and wellness in mind, body and spirit. Furthermore, through the practice of yoga, kids can begin to learn about exercise, develop greater self-esteem, deepen inner confidence and learn to focus and concentrate.
In addition to the benefits listed above, yoga does a body good!
Here’s why: yoga promotes neuromuscular development and motor development. Children practicing yoga gain strong bodies that are flexible and able to balance. Yoga aids in developing core strength and proper physical alignment. Children who practice yoga reduce their chances of injury and are known to sleep better because they are better able to relax. Yoga will improve digestion and circulation. Likewise, yoga will strengthen your children’s immune system.
Wait-the benefits don’t stop here!
Yoga also teaches children to improve their minds by helping them learn how to calm themselves and be present in the moment. Yoga improves the concentration and attention span. When children learn yoga postures, a child’s thinking and memory processes are cultivated. Kids who practice yoga have better responses to stress because they have lessened anxiety. Yoga also encourages character development, confidence and self-esteem. Yoga classes support the development of healthy social interactions and self-control. Lastly, when kids practice yoga, they are learning to respect themselves and others, while also gaining individuality.
Aside from the multitude of benefits outlined above, the professionals agree that yoga and kids are a perfect match.
Alexandra De Collibus, yoga teacher and founder of Sweet Pea Yoga Studio says, “Because children encounter emotional, social, and physical challenges or conflicts, a dedicated and intentional yoga practice that includes breathing techniques, behavioral guidelines, and physical postures can be incredibly valuable for them.” De Collibus also believes that yoga is something children can practice anywhere and that the breathing, the concentration, the poses, and the way kids learn to act or react to situations, will lead to constant self-discovery and inquisitiveness.
Likewise, National Public Radio (NPR) has reported that researchers surveyed teachers at a Bronx public school that had a daily yoga program and found that the program reduced kids’ aggressive behavior, social withdrawal, and hyperactivity, compared with a control group of kids with autism who did not practice yoga.
Last, but not least, the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) and the National Association of the Education for Young Children (NAEYC) recommend that children should participate in activities that support the development of the whole child…that is what yoga is all about!
Regular yoga practices are a wonderful activity to introduce to children! Not only does yoga promote the mind-body connection, but it encourages a healthy lifestyle.
Sources:
http://www.parents.com/fun/sports/exercise/the-benefits-of-yoga-for-kids/
http://www.myyogaonline.com/community/blog/benefits-of-yoga-for-children
http://www.pbs.org/parents/food-and-fitness/sport-and-fitness/why-yoga-and-kids-go-together/
