The benefits of yoga for adults living in a busy, stressful world are often cited which has led to yoga becoming much more mainstream in recent years. Think about the classes you've seen advertised at your local gym, the yogis you pass on your way home through the park or the playlists you come across on Youtube. But why should kids do yoga, does it really benefit them or is it just another fad?
You may be surprised to learn that yoga can benefit children massively, shaping both their understanding and interaction with the world now and helping them to build their personal, social and emotional well-being in the future. In fact, I would go so far as to say that yoga could benefit children more than adults, if taught correctly and acknowledging the needs of the children in the group. Outlined below are my top 5 benefits that regular yoga practice can bring to children.
1. Yoga introduces calmness.
In today's society the pressure placed on children is extreme. School results, social circles, home life are just a few triggers. It could be argued that children experience stress to a greater extent than adults due to their limited coping mechanisms at younger ages. Yoga introduces techniques to help combat these stresses such as breathing, empathy and physical activity which when integrated into children's lives can help them to live happier, healthier lives.
2. Yoga improves focus.
Speaking as a school teacher, children globally are less and less able to focus on things for a set amount of time. Increased amounts of screen time have had a knock-on effect in classrooms and homes meaning that some children are unable to sit still for long enough to listen to a story or complete an exam. Yoga teaches children mindfulness and awareness of the present moment which in turn fosters focus in all areas of the child's life.
3. Yoga encourages non-competitiveness.
Whilst a certain element of healthy competition can be encouraging and motivational for some children, for others it can be downright daunting. Yoga teaches that everybody is different and able to achieve different things, all of which are incredible. Whilst hard work and commitment are important, yoga encourages children to join in to the best of their ability and to be proud of themselves for it.
4. Yoga fosters healthy habits.
Physical activity for children is a must! Not only do they absolutely love being active, it is essential for their growing bodies and minds. Yoga encourages children to develop strong bodies and strong minds, which ultimately will be able to overcome a lot (even into adulthood) if the habit is maintained.
5. Yoga is fun for all ages!
From inquisitive toddlers to energetic primary school children to hormonal teenagers, yoga has a hook for all children. There are songs, games, and stories that are engaging for the younger years whilst the older years are able to explore the capacities of their bodies and minds undertaking more 'adult' style sessions. Family yoga sessions can be particularly beneficial for maintaining bonds too.
What better way to discover the amazing benefits that yoga can bring to children than allowing them to try a class? You'll be as convinced as me after the first session!
Namaste.
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