Introducing children to yoga ...
"Stretch Yourself" - YTI's Stretch Yourself Programme for Schools
Lie on your tummy with your legs together making yourself long like a snake. Place your hands on the floor under your shoulders and your head on the floor. Breathe in and begin very slowly to lift yourself up. Keep your shoulders down and your elbows in by your sides. Hiss like a snake. Lower yourself gently down. The snake helps us to keep our spines strong and flexible.
For details of Yoga Therapy Ireland's Stretch Yourself Yoga Programme for schools please contact Sharongleeson@eircom.net.
Find out more about YTI's course on how to teach yoga to children.
Yoga for children
Everyone knows that yoga is good for you even those who are not quite sure exactly what it involves!
Yoga has so much to offer children but most importantly for them it is fun. Yoga is a complete form of exercise which develops stamina, strength and flexibility.
Childhood is becoming an increasingly stressful time for our children and attending a regular yoga class gives them a chance to take some time out.
A typical class will include postures which are modified to become fun for children to practice. Our Downward Facing Dog will have a name and bark. Our Cobra makes a loud hissing sound ! They will practice some gentle breathing and relaxation techniques which they are encouraged to use at stressful times in their lives. All of this is done in a non-competitive environment which allows every child to participate equally.
Graine McGowan, Principal of Mount Anville School in Stillorgan says: What better way for a child to end a difficult day than with a session of relaxation. Even those with special needs have been seen to partake with equal benefit as the rest of the group this is a big boost to their self esteem. I would love if all of the children (and teachers!) could have yoga sessions during the school day on a regular basis.
If you are interested in offering Children's Yoga at your school please contact Sharon Gleeson, Yoga Therapy Ireland 087 2482884.