As the school day wears on, even the most creative teachers lose students to boredom and disinterest. Many schools are learning that yoga is an invigorating and effective break. In just 15 to 20 minutes, children gain benefits from yogic wiggling and self-reflection. Giving students the opportunity to free their bodies, giggle in and out of poses, and tune inward is a wonderful way to create productivity and harmony in the classroom.
Improved Concentration
Yoga improves concentration. Marsha Wenig, founder of YogaKids, emphasizes that yoga increases a child's imagination and ability to learn. This is largely due to the calm discipline communicated through yoga practice. Childhood is a wonderful time to establish habits of deep breathing and alignment. This mind-body connection creates self-awareness and an appreciation for present awareness. Slowing the mind will help children return to the classroom calmly with the ability to focus on the lesson at hand.
Physical Strength
Gym class is an effective way for children to get fit -- but yoga adds another dimension of strength. Unlike running and jumping, yoga lengthens and opens the body. Kids enjoy exploring the potential of their muscles as they move and balance. Maintaining yoga poses requires tons of effort from young bodies, says Baron Baptiste, founder of KidPowerYoga in Boston. It's a powerful, gentle way for kids to build strength in their arms, legs and core.
Better Rest
A 2003 survey by the National Survey of Children's Health revealed that 15 million children are sleep deprived. Busy schedules, horrible eating habits and over-stimulating entertainment are all to blame, according to the American Academy of Pediatrics. They also list yoga as an effective way to combat unhealthy sleeping habits and insomnia. Yoga warms the body and tires the muscles while relaxing the mind. Children who practice yoga at school face the evening rejuvenated yet ready to rest.
Stress Reduction
Children need to establish stress reduction habits early in life. School settings can often be competitive and overwhelming. Yoga is the perfect way to redirect self-criticism and boost self-esteem. Wenig says that yoga actually changes the neurophysiology of the brain. She notes that yoga establishes a noncompetitive atmosphere in which children can explore balance, breath and physical potential. Kids who learn yoga at school are equipped with tools to maneuver stressful situations in every aspect of life.
