Yoga involves specific stretching exercises with controlled, death breathing. People of all ages and abilities practice yoga, including children. Yoga practice for children focuses on the breathing, concentration and stretching aspects. Numerous programs offer yoga for youth, including an increasing number of schools. According to a CNN report in the fall of 2009, over 150 U.S. schools used a specific yoga lesson plan as a part of their curriculum.
History
Yoga originated in India over 6,000 years ago. The word yoga comes from the Sanskrit language and means union. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, yoga originally incorporated eight limbs: pranayama, or breathing; asana, the postures; yama, restraint; healthy observances, or niyama; dharana, or concentration; dhyana, the meditation aspect; pratyahara, sensory withdrawal; and sanadhi, or high consciousness. Swami Vivekananda brought yoga to the United States in the 1890s, where the exercise is practiced without many of the traditional, philosophical aspects.
Types
Yoga for children usually uses slightly altered forms of Hatha yoga poses. Hatha yoga includes several types, including Iyengar, kundalini and ashtanga. In simplifies form, these types of yoga work for children of all ages and levels. Many of the poses mimic and use the names of animals and things from nature, such as the downward dog, that increase interest in children.
Studies
Several studies exist showing the benefits of yoga for children and more or ongoing. One study from the University of Texas looked into the effects of Ashtanga yoga on weight in children with a high risk for Type 2 diabetes. Another study conducted by Flushing Hospital in New York tested the effects yoga has on inner-city youth and their well-being. An Ohio University research study showed positive improvements on ADD/ADHD in classroom students with yoga practice.
Benefits
The results of the studies show that yoga can have numerous positive effects for children. The results showed weight loss and an improvement in anxiety. Some participants also had increased self-esteem. Benefits such as decreased negative behaviors, better balance and improved well-being were reported amongst participants. Yoga might also help improve concentration and motivation. According to MayoClinic.com, yoga can reduce stress, increase fitness, aid in managing health conditions and promote weight loss.
Considerations
As with any exercise program, children should have the approval of their primary care provider before beginning. Yoga poses for kids should start out simplistic and gradually advance to reduce any risk of injury and to develop ability. A qualified teacher can help during the learning process so children do the poses correctly. Some people may express concerns about the philosophy of yoga believing it ties into religious beliefs. Yoga, however, doesn't have to include any religious connotations.
References
- "Complementary Therapies in Clinical Practice": Ashtanga Yoga for Children and Adolescents
- "Alternative Therapies in Health and Medicine": Effects of Yoga on Inner-City Children's Well-Being
- MayoClinic.com: Yoga: Tap into the Health Benefits of Yoga
- Ohio University: The Effects of Curriculum Based Yoga on Children with ADHD
- CNN.com: Yoga Helps Even Little Ones Channel Energy, Emotion
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