The Benefits of Kids Yoga

I think we can all agree that the world is a pretty different place from when we grew up. Everything seems to be moving so much faster, and in between all the normal stresses of being a child or adolescent these days there’s the pressure of the internet, social media, unrealistic advertising and kids being forced to grow up much too fast!

It’s no surprise that rates of anxiety and depression amongst children is growing, and parents are looking more and more towards natural methods of helping their children to be healthier and happier. Kids and teens yoga is one of the greatest investments you can make in your child’s health – it caters to children from as young as 5 years old and is perfect for children with special developmental needs, injuries and limitations and can be practiced by kids of any fitness level with any body type.

Increased flexibility, balance, strength and endurance are achieved through play – nothing too serious or too intense! This is a form or exercise that doesn’t feel like ‘hard work’ and is perfect for kids who may not be interested in traditional sports.

There is no competition – in fact, children are encouraged to let go of comparison and embrace uniqueness. There is no pressure to perform – there are always lots of options and poses are taught by how the feel rather than how they look. Children are taught to breathe – how this is important to self-calm and de-stress and can be used at anytime, anywhere. Children are taught to be still – how to relax, draw inwards and stop-attaching to thoughts.

As well as the physical and mental benefits yoga has the added benefit of teaching children about compassion and kindness. Yogic theory is weaved into classes encouraging kids to think more about others, developing an open mind and caring nature. Yogic theory is non-denominational and non-religious – no matter what your belief system at home, yoga simply adds to it, emphasising self-study and awareness, love and respect for the people, animals and planet around you, and perhaps most important of all, love towards yourself.

If you think your child or teen might benefit from a regular yoga practice our Holland Park Studio runs classes throughout school terms.

Find out more about our Kids Yoga (5 – 10 years) here

Find out more about our Teens Yoga (11 – 15 years) here

Supervised children over the age of 9 years old are also welcome in our Deep Stretch and Simple Stretch classes at a discounted rate. Email info@stretchyoga.com.au or call 07 3157 3100 to fine out more.