One of the little-considered techniques we can utilize is the ancient science and art of yoga, practiced either individually, or practiced as a shared experience with our children – welcome to the world of family yoga. There are a number of myths and a lack of understanding about the benefits of yoga….

 

Yoga …

 

…consists of a number of different techniques, including physical stretching and balancing poses (asanas) which strengthen both the external body and the functioning of our internal organs, breathing techniques to promote detoxification and body cleansing (pranayama) and relaxation and meditation practices.

 

…is noncompetitive, nonthreatening and accessible: everyone’s body is different, some are more flexible than others, and some are physically stronger than others. Whatever your level of fitness, yoga is beneficial as a form of physical exercise for everyone and family yoga is the opportunity to value and share our individual strengths and to support each other in developing our physical bodies in a fun and interactive way. By developing a yoga practice, we develop confidence and research has shown this helps children build their self-esteem.

 

…increases flexibility and balance, which in turn tones muscles gently and safely, so we are less prone to physical accidents and injuries. Weight-bearing exercise also promotes the growth of strong and healthy bones.

 

…enhances concentration: in a world full of external stimuli, balancing poses and meditation/relaxation practices encourage us to develop our focus, turning our attention inwards, so we can learn how to sit still! This builds attention span, so we, including our children, can retain and process information more easily.

 

…enhances the quality of relationships: participating in an activity with your children, helps you to spend quality time together and to share an experience as equals. Classes are fun and involve partner work, promoting deeper respect for each other and helping you to build trusting relationships. The techniques learned can then be reinforced and practiced anywhere with little or no equipment on a regular and preferably daily basis to establish healthy living practices.

 

…relaxes the mind and increases awareness: Our lives and days are full of activity and work as we seek to improve ourselves and our children. It is no wonder that research and statistics show we are a society that is becoming more stressed.  The short and long term effects of stress are well documented and can lead to anxiety, poor sleep patterns, increased conflict, physical health problems, and depression. Working closely with young children (under the age of 4) and then more independently with children from as young as 4 or 5, yoga provides self-help techniques they can access to help them relax and de-stress when they feel upset or depressed.

 

Regular yoga practice can help to calm both the mind and body, which are inextricably linked; this union of mind and body is the very essence of yoga – these are the ingredients of a happy and healthy lifestyle.

 

Namaste (greeting you with respect)

 

Anjli runs YogaBelliesKidz classes in schools and nurseries and family yoga private classes from birth to teen. For more information, contact [insert contact details]’

 

Namaste

 

 

Contact us today to become a yoga teacher trainer.