Inspired by methods of introducing meditation to children, I was also driven to understand how children could benefit from yoga. I decided to initially check out expert views and thoughts. This idea propelled me to go to a yoga teacher who guides adults and kids. This blog is a culmination of the ‘gyan’ (knowledge) she bestowed on me. I wish to share the benefits with fellow parents as well.

1. Give your Children the Gift of Yoga
Inspired by methods of introducing meditation to children, I was also driven
to understand how children could benefit from yoga. I decided to initially
check out expert views and thoughts. This idea propelled me to go to a yoga
teacher who guides adults and kids. This blog is a culmination of the ‘gyan’
(knowledge) she bestowed on me. I wish to share the benefits with fellow
parents as well.
Also read: Introducing Children to Meditation
The natural postures of a child are Yoga asanas. If you observe a sleeping
child, its thumb and the index finger slightly touch, a formation which is the
‘Chinmudra’.On observing an infant, you will be amazed at how balanced his
breathing is. Babies breathe from all the three sections of the body. As they
breathe in their belly comes out, as they breathe out their belly moves in.
Yoga is an ancient science which helps to create health and well-being by
building awareness, strength, and flexibility in both mind and body. Even at a
young age, children often feel pressure at school academically and socially,
plus the added pressure of competitive organized sports. It is easy for girls
and boys to become overly self-critical, and lose self-confidence as they grow
and change. It was really wonderful to know that introducing children to Yoga
has multiple benefits. Some of the key benefits are mentioned below:

2. Cultivates a peaceful, relaxed state of body and mind
All yoga classes conclude with a quiet time, also known as Deep Relaxation.
Different from napping, this is an all-time favorite for yoginis of all ages.
Called the “Do Nothing Pose,” children relish lying on their backs in quiet,
peaceful stillness, sometimes with music and a guided visualization, foot
massage, or a herbal eye pillow. Even if just for three minutes, children learn
to understand the importance of this peace and can carry it with them into
their daily lives.
Helps manage stress
Practising yoga provides kids an immediate outlet to reduce stress in a safe
and nurturing environment. It is a physical exercise that produces happy
endorphins. While breathing exercises slow down the heart rate, relaxation
techniques are powerful sources for calming the mind and the body. Yoga
teaches non-judgment and non-competition toward oneself and one another.
These are all tools that a child can carry in to any difficult life situation.
Teaches discipline and responsibility
Yoga is not a destination; rather it is a journey of a lifetime, which takes
discipline. Ideally, when children learn at a young age the benefit of a
committed practice, it ripples out into their everyday life activities,
relationships, and responsibilities. When they learn that yoga takes practice
versus an immediate accomplishment, they learn and accept that life is a path
with good days, bad days, and everything in between.
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