Marsha Wenig, creator of YogaKids products, says that yoga has the same effect on your child as on adults. Aside from physical benefits like improving fitness, yoga "teaches focus and provides a means for self soothing." Yoga and meditation have been used in public and private schools, in juvenile detention centers around the country and for kids with special needs. Virtually all kids benefit from proper training in this ancient system.
Significance
Your child might face more pressure than you realize, whether from school, sports, peers, you, even from herself, as she navigates her way through life. Many children get less exercise than ever, and childhood obesity has gained a great deal of media attention. According to "Yoga Journal," 2.5 million school-age children are on some form of medication for ADHD. Yoga and meditation address these issues and more.
Benefits
Yoga and meditation cultivate a physically, mentally and emotionally healthy lifestyle. Your child conditions each part of her body by performing asanas, or postures. Younger children receive tools to calm themselves; tweens get in touch with their emotions. Teenagers develop confidence and self esteem through meditation and breathing exercises. These practices establish positive patterns that can last a lifetime. The philosophy of yoga promotes the compassionate attitudes and values you want to teach your child.
Considerations and Warnings
Some forms of yoga are more static while others are more active, so consider your child's age, activity level and temperament when introducing her to the arts of yoga and meditation. The American Yoga Association (AYA) warns, "Yoga exercises are not recommended for children under 16 because their bodies' nervous and glandular systems are still growing, and the effect of Yoga exercises on these systems may interfere with natural growth." However, the AYA cites the benefits of meditation exercises for younger children.
Features
Yoga and meditation practices emphasize fun and flexibility in order to meet your child's developmental needs. While a period of quiet relaxation is standard, your preschooler will be free to move and have fun during most of her practice. Younger children might make animal noises, sing songs or chant. Your school-age child might work on partner poses that enhance social skills. By the teenage years, your child can practice as an adult.
Types
The dynamic nature of Kundalini Yoga, which includes movement, chanting and relaxation, is a good fit for your child if she has trouble holding poses. The YogaKids method is fun and challenging while teaching her to be still and listen to her body. Sonia Sumar's Yoga for the Special Child helps many physically and mentally disabled children to overcome their obstacles. Several organizations like The Lineage Project in New York use yoga and meditation to help rehabilitate at-risk youth.
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