Kids are born acrobats. Yoga postures are natural poses for a child. In fact, simple yoga asanas seem to be embedded in the human body.
If you observe an infant, you will see a good deal of toddler yoga. A sleeping baby often strikes the ‘Chinmudra’ where the thumb and index finger touch. A six-month-old baby is frequently found on its back in Bhujangasana (cobra posture). While Adho Mukha Svanasana (downward dog pose) is a perennial favorite.
Benefits of Yoga for Kids
Children spend most of their time shunting between homework and school-related extra-curricular activities. There’s little time for free play. They face overstimulation; distractions; and academic and peer pressure too early in life. Plus they’re plagued by their own insecurities and fears.
Yoga can help children deal with this pressure environment. And infuse energy and confidence into their personalities.
- Yoga develops awareness of body, mind, and breath.
- Helps arrest a child’s wandering mind. Builds attention span and concentration power.
- Augments imagination and creativity.
- Relieves mental and physical fatigue. Boosts energy levels and provides deep relaxation too.
- Emotional health
- Fosters a positive self-image and increases confidence.
- Increases breathing and lung capacity.
- Strengthens and lengthens different muscles in the body.
- Encourages healthy food habits. A blessing for parents who have to deal with picky eaters and junk food addiction
- Reduces obsession with TV and other electronic devices
Yoga Poses for Kids
School-going kids benefit enormously from the supportive, non-competitive environment of a yoga class. And can continue yoga practice at home also, especially during holidays and while pursuing sports.
Sarvangasana (Shoulder Stand pose)
- Nourishes the brain by increasing blood flow to it.
- Strengthens the arms and legs.
- Keeps the spine flexible, ensuring participation in a wide range of physical activities.
Virabhadrasana (Warrior Pose)
- Tones the arms and leg muscles.
- Helps improve balance in the body.
- Increases stamina.
Yoga for toddlers
Vrikshasana (Tree Pose)
- Tones the arms and legs, Children are able to enjoy physical activities.
- Helps strengthen the back, thereby increasing height.
- Increases concentration power and focus, and is certainly a great help with homework.
- Enhances mind-body balance.
Surya Namaskar (Sun Salutation)
- Relaxes the nervous system. This helps overcome issues like stage fright.
- Increases flexibility in the legs and hips. Improves motion.
- Strengthens the back muscles. This increases flexibility during play. Helps with posture at the study table. Improves memory.
- The overall well-being that comes from doing Surya Namaskar cannot be underestimated.
Dhanurasana (Bow Pose)
- Strengthens the arm and leg muscles.
- Makes the back strong and flexible.
- Helps relieve stress and fatigue.
- yoga asanas for children
Shavasana (Corpse Pose)
- Rejuvenates the body. Releases stress and fatigue.
- Calms the mind, improving concentration.
- Stimulates blood circulation, energizing the body.
Kids who practice yoga are able to reap long-term benefits all their life.