While there are many different styles that have their own unique
aspects, in general, yoga is an ancient practice that incorporates a
holistic view of the mind and body, bringing the two together through a
series of movements and meditations. Regardless of which style of yoga,
there is some unique elements when considering yoga for children.
Before starting your child in a yoga program, you will want to be
comfortable with the instructor, and you'll want to understand what
physical and psychological benefits you can expect for your child.
As
any parent would agree, it is very important to feel comfortable with
any coach or instructor you are entrusting with your child's
well-being. Teaching children in any formalized setting takes a special
talent that not everyone has. When it comes to teaching yoga for
children, the flexibility that the instructor shows in allowing for
questions and different learning styles will be more important than her
physical flexibility. You want your child to have a positive learning
experience from this activity, so you should speak to the instructor and
probably even watch a class before enrolling your child.
The
physical benefits of yoga will be easy to see after your child has been
practicing for a while. While it looks deceptively easy, yoga will help
your child develop both strength and flexibility throughout his entire
body, especially in the core muscles. Another of the physical benefits
you will see is increased coordination, especially if your child is near
or at the age of puberty, which can be one of the most awkward times
for a child because of the physical changes his body is undergoing.
Along
with the physical benefits, your child will find the practice of yoga
to be a relaxing stress reliever. While most adults don't think much
about it, the constant pressure of school work and homework, a busy
schedule of activities outside of school, and the competitive nature of
many sports activities children are so often involved in these days can
cause a considerable amount of stress for the child. Yoga provides
stress relief for children much the same as it does for adults.
An
added benefit in the practice of yoga for children is that some
research shows it to provide some relief for the symptoms of
hyperactivity and ADHD. One of the common factors in these disorders is
that the sufferer craves physical movement, which yoga provides while
at the same time providing a sense of calm and quiet. This can continue
into the child's life outside yoga.
Once you have found the right
instructor, yoga can provide many benefits for almost any child.
Whether you are looking to help your child's physical development,
relieve his stress, or find an alternative to traditional treatment for a
specific disorder, yoga is an all-in-one solution.
