Benefits of children's yoga

Introducing a child to yoga opens up a whole new world, and provides a welcome break from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. While yoga gives great physical benefits, at the same time is has a hugely positive impact on emotional and psychological well-being. This synergy is the magic of yoga.

On a physical level, it:

enhances children’s natural development

Age-appropriate yoga gently and realistically supports and develops children’s abilities. For example, babies become more aware of their own movements to gradually move into positions requiring more coordination and strength as they roll, sit, crawl and walk.

As children grow, yoga offers opportunities to keep challenging them and celebrate their achievements, like balancing, bending and being upside-down. Through regular practice they build strength in the body, which is often difficult for children, despite their natural flexibility.

Yoga also teaches kids to practice both gross and fine motor skills in a fun way. This makes children more spatially aware and helps them better understand their physical abilities and limits. Yoga also gives children the opportunity to develop better eye-hand coordination.

helps regulate and balance children’s systems as they grow

Yoga can be beneficial in areas such as improved digestion (e.g. helping to relieve constipation), helping children wind down at the end of the day, as well as addressing issues of hyperactivity or general lack of energy.

povides the opportunity for them to have a multi-sensory experience

Yoga evokes all the senses, improving brain development and learning. Varied sensory input helps the brain remember, enhancing both physical and mental development.

provides vitality and breath awareness

Yoga lets babies and children experience a lot physically as well as doing interesting things like being quiet/loud, singing, breathing, resting and learning to focus. Playful yoga provides a range of experiences so they feel vitality and joy. Yoga also teaches children to become aware of their breathing in each pose, which helps anchor them to the present and connect to self.

On an emotional and psychological level, it:

increases confidence and self-esteem

Yoga is not competitive, and all achievements are celebrated - whether it’s the first time a baby sits independently or a child balances on one foot. This positive reinforcement builds confidence in their own abilities. Recognition of their strengths and gentle guidance as to how they can improve - without self-judgment or comparison – gives them the courage to keep trying their best.

provides ways to relax and manage stress

Relaxation and breathing exercises help children focus and calm the nervous system, which renew balance in the body systems and mind. Gradually, when they become conscious of their reactions in moments of upset, anger or stress, children learn to choose their reactions. Stress management techniques taught in yoga are valuable in childhood and later on. And even learning that they can rest while not asleep is a valuable gift for life.

provides family fun and fosters bonding

Yoga also gives you a chance to spend quality time with your child, while at the same time helping them gain and develop skills that will last a lifetime. It provides a positive, calm and enjoyable experience for adult and child alike - kids are thrilled to be in a group with their own parents, doing something that feels safe and happy; parents get to see their children in a different light, thriving on the fun and sense of achievement and recognition, their true radiance emerging.