Everyone is more likely to stay interested in something they’re passionate about rather than being bored half to death by it. Yoga is an excellent way for kids and adults alike to experience something calming and relaxing that also has physical benefits too. As such, introducing your children to yoga can be a fantastic idea if you want them to develop their muscles and stay healthy throughout their lives. Here are 5 great ways you can introduce your kids to yoga so they have access to this wonderful practice later on in life…
Try a gentle Yoga Class
Kids love activities that allow them to get their muscles active and build strength. Yoga is no exception to this rule, and it’s a gentle practice that’s perfect for youngsters. That said, you don’t have to take it easy on them either, so you can focus on improving your child’s flexibility, strength, and balance.
You can also make sure your child has a safe and enjoyable experience by getting information from a qualified teacher about the practice and how to properly do it. Studies have found that practicing yoga can boost kids’ cognitive skills, particularly their problem-solving abilities. Yoga can also help kids focus better and increase their attention span, so it’s a great way to help them get ahead in school.
Get your kids involved in teaching exercises
As you try to get your kids more involved in yoga, it’s a good idea to let them help teach the exercises. This can turn a mundane practice into something fun, exciting, and even creative. It can be a great way to introduce kids to yoga if they’re likely to be the ones wanting to get the most out of the experience. Kids often have a strong desire to explore, experiment, and immerse themselves in new things, while also having the desire to learn and better themselves.
Take your own class together
Another great way to introduce your kids to yoga is to take a class together. This can be a great bonding experience for you both as you get to explore and learn more about yoga and each other. If your local area has access to a yoga studio or you have access to a nearby park, you can easily take a class. That way, you and your children can get the full benefits of yoga, including strength and flexibility training, stress relief, and even mindfulness.
Check out free online yoga videos
In the age of technology, it’s easy to get sucked into the habit of relying on technology to entertain your children. Yoga doesn’t have to be left out of this equation. You can watch free online yoga videos, including guided meditation and yoga poses, with your kids if they’re old enough. This can help them better understand the practice, see what’s involved, and help them get more out of the practice themselves.
Encourage movement and breathing with Hatha yoga
Hatha yoga is the most commonly practiced form of yoga, and it focuses almost entirely on breathing and body movement. That makes it a great practice for children, as it helps them improve their agility, flexibility, and balance.
It also encourages movement, so it’s a great way for your kids to get their muscles warm and active as well as learn how to be more calm and relaxed. There are several Hatha yoga classes that are fun for children, such as those that focus on playing games or that incorporates dancing. This can help your kids better understand the practice as well.
Shake up your practice with Raj tow or Ashtanga layo
Most yoga practices follow some sort of sequences, such as in the Ashtanga or Raja yoga styles. However, there are other types of yoga as well, and you can shake things up by trying out other yoga styles. Ashtanga yoga is a highly technical form of yoga that’s great for those who want to pursue a strong dedication to the practice.
Ashtanga practitioners are expected to practice the same sequence of poses each day, so this is a great way to push yourself. In contrast, Raja yoga is a more laid-back form of yoga that’s perfect for those who want a gentle introduction to yoga but don’t want to give up on a more intense practice later on.
Summary
Yoga has been used for thousands of years to promote mental and physical health, and it’s a great way to incorporate movement into your daily routine. It’s also an excellent form of exercise, and it helps improve flexibility, strength, and balance. That makes it an excellent choice for kids, who can get the benefits of yoga while also staying playful and vibrant. The best part is you don’t even have to be particularly athletic to practice yoga, so it’s an accessible practice for all ages.
