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Quote of the Week
"The present moment is filled with joy and happiness. If you are attentive, you will see it." - Thich Nhat Hanh
Why More Kids Are Learning - And Enjoying - Yoga
What is Yoga? Why is it important? How can we make it joyful for children?
The word Yoga comes from the Sanskrit root which means "To Unite". There are several interpretations about the meaning of the word Yoga ranging from 'Union of Physical, Mental and Emotional Well-being' to the one with a spiritual dimension of "Union with the Divine".
One of the key goals of yoga is to develop self-awareness. Several research-based and scientific studies have shown various physical benefits of yoga like improved flexibility, balance, strength and cardiovascular health. It also shows mental and emotional benefits to youth from ages 5 to 18, including decreased anxiety, boosted concentration and memory, improved confidence and self-esteem, and better academic performance.
Millions of children around the world are learning and practicing Yoga in school and home environments. A lot of fun and creative tools are being developed to make the entire process joyful for children. Given the present situation with Covid-19, many learning programs and tools are being offered online. In this week's featured article, several Yoga teachers share their thoughts and ideas on "Why more kids are learning and enjoying yoga." One of them concludes by saying “Yoga helps us live life to the fullest potential by anchoring us in ourselves. It’s a lifelong journey you can take together as a family." [read more]
Reading Corner
 Title: Yoga For Children: A Complete Illustrated Guide
By: Swati and Rajiv Chanchani
Age: 10+ Years
Yoga For Children traces the roots of Yoga in mythology and legend, and includes many stories and tales bringing out the inspiration for the postures. Presented in a highly appealing, informative and enjoyable format, it also stresses the links of the postures to the natural world - trees, mountains, flowers, animals.
The book also lays emphasis on the universal moral and ethical values implicit in the practice of Yoga. Besides, it highlights the geometrical forms and precision in the postures, so that children can relate to these abstract concepts through what they have learnt in their body movements. Each Yoga posture is explained through photographs, drawings, stories and detailed instruction with figures illustrating several stages in performing the posture. Important 'dos and don'ts' and the benefits of each posture are also given.
An important part of the book is also a detailed section meant for parents and teachers comprising specific guidance on keeping the children practicing Yoga creatively, enjoyably and safely.
Recommended by Kindful Kids Editors
Be The Change
Deepen your own understanding of Yoga and spend some time with your child(ren) in a joyful way to explore integrating Yoga in everyday life. Here are some videos and resources which also include ideas for quarantine-homeschooling.
If there are any Yoga resources that you find useful, please do send them to us so we can share them with our community in coming weeks.
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