What Is Kids Yoga?
We say that YOGA is an exercise for our BODY, HEART and MIND. Children build strength, body awareness, social skills and self-confidence. With the regular practice of yoga, they become more aware of their own emotions and more understanding of other people. For kids of all ages, yoga has the tools to cultivate physical health, mindfulness, focus and tranquility that any child will use every day
Why Is Yoga Good for Kids?
- Strengthens the spine and improves posture
- Helps develop body awareness and balance
- Builds confidence and social skills
- Supports emotional and mental wellness
- Relaxes and renews
YOGA SUN SALUTATIONS
Mountain Pose (Tadasana)
Stand tall like a Mountain, with your feet together and your back straight. Press your feet down into the floor and feel the weight of your whole body balance evenly in your feet. Relax your shoulders, relax your arms. Stand tall and take a few deep breaths in and out through your nose, feeling strong and powerful.
Upward-Facing Dog (Urdhva Mukha Svanasana)
Let your hips drop but don’t let your knees touch the floor. Keep your arms strong, relax your shoulders and stretch your spine. Look up! And, maybe, howl like a dog on a full moon.
Plank Pose
Put your hands down on the floor and step your feet back. Press your toes and your hands down. Make your back straight, one long line with your legs. Look forward. Keep your body strong, breathe in and out a few times.
Downward-Facing Dog (Adho Mukha Svanasana)
Breathe out and lift your hips up high. Keep your arms and legs as straight as you can. Say “woof woof!” a few times and then let your head relax!
Loving Kindness Meditation - Sit up tall and if you can, close your eyes. Let your breath become slow and steady. And first, think of someone you love. Imagine that person in front of you and say quietly to them:
May you be happy,
May you be healthy,
May you be safe,
May you know that all is well.
Now, imagine yourself. Think of something you’re really good at and something you’re still learning. Say quietly to yourself:
May I be happy,
May I be healthy,
May I be safe,
May I know that all is well.
Last, think of all the people in the world. Everyone you have met and everyone you don’t know. Say quietly to all people in the world:
May we all be happy,
May we all be healthy,
May we all be safe,
May we all know that all is well.
Breathe in and out a few times and open your eyes.
“So Hum” Meditation - Sit up tall and relax your shoulders. Notice your breathing and simply watch it for a while. Is it short or long? Does it go to your belly, your chest, or your back? Just notice and let your breathing stay as it is. When you breathe in, say to yourself “So”, as you breathe out, say silently “Hum.” So Hum means “I am that.” It means the core, most essential part of you. What do you think is your core? How would you finish the mantra “I am …”? You can start with your qualities or things that you like to do or to learn.