Yoga, an ancient system of holistic health, means "to join" or "unite." There are eight parts to a yoga practice, all with the goal of attaining optimum balance, health and awareness. Yoga can be practiced by people of all ages, including children, and offers numerous benefits. Consult with your doctor before allowing your child to practice yoga.
Physically
The asanas, or stretches, performed in yoga can help a child's young body by improving flexibility, strength, coordination and body awareness. Modern technology can put your child's posture at risk. Yoga can help combat this risk from a young age, by developing a strong structural foundation in the body. Regular practice of yoga can also help your child develop a strong immune system, preventing illness.
Mentally
Yoga can help your child relax and deal with stress. The meditation and breathing exercises often practiced in yoga can also help your child concentrate better in school. Teach your child to meditate by guiding them through it. Have them focus on their breath or an image to keep their attention. Practicing balancing yoga poses with your kids may help improve their focus. With regular yoga practice, your child's self-esteem may also improve, making yoga good for adolescents.
Cross-training
In U.S. culture, kids are encouraged to be involved in sports, many of which are competitive. Yoga is a physical activity that is noncompetitive and can give your child a break he may need from sports. This will help create balance for your child and also help prevent injury. Regular practice of yoga may even improve sport performance. Have your child start with a few forward-bending poses and back bends to keep his body supple.
Lifelong Skills
YogaKids founder Marsha Wenig says practicing yoga with your child can help them foster cooperation and compassion. Developing these skills at a young age may be helpful for your child in adulthood. Teach your children to practice yoga with a group and show them how to help each other in poses that may be difficult. For instance, having your child help a friend who is struggling with their balance in tree pose can help develop cooperation and compassion for both kids.
References
- "Yoga for Children"; Swait Chanchani and Rajiv Chanchani; 2009
- "Yoga Journal": Yoga for Kids
- "Yoga, The Path to Holistic Health"; B.K.S. Iyengar; 2001
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