Wednesday, June 16, 2010
As we teach our children to succeed in academics, music, sports, and the arts do we think to teach them how to relax? As competition and stress become greater factors in our children’s lives, how do we expect our children to maintain a healthy balance in living? Simple rest and “relaxation” (or even sleep) are not enough to clear the mind of busy thoughts and childhood worries. The body may rejuvenate physically but the mind continues to work if not properly trained to rest. Clearing / resting the mind helps to increase creativity, self-control, and attention skills. Even dreams become more coherent and calm when one know how to relax .
Yoga poses can be beneficial in teaching your child to relax. The breathing techniques integrated with the physical stretching encourages further relaxation. The stretches increase flexibility, body awareness, and coordination in your child. As the body is allowed to physically relax, so is the mind allowed to become clear of thought, focused simply on the body / pose.
Various yoga poses from www.parents.com can be googled under “yoga for children” and an audio showing a brief relaxation activity can be viewed on www.yogakids.com I have copies of poses and how to teach them in my office as well.
Try some of these poses with your family at home and discover the pleasure and personal growth in being a more relaxed family.
Warmly,
Ms. Lori