THE ROLE OF KIDS'S YOGA IN SCHOOL
Yoga offers physical and mental health benefits to practitioners of any age, including children. Undeniably, yoga supports our children's academic journey, standing out not only for its physical benefits but also for its positive impact on cognitive functions and emotional well-being. Below is a non-exhaustive list of the benefits of kid's yoga specific to academic performance.
Below is a non-exhaustive list of the recognised physical and mental benefits of yoga practice for kids:
1. Concentration and Memory Boost
In the bustling environment of classrooms and homework, the ability to concentrate is a precious skill. Kid's yoga provides a sanctuary for developing focus and attention. Mindful breathing helps children tune into the present moment, fostering a calm and centered mind ready for learning.
Remembering facts, figures, and lessons can be a significant challenge for children. Yoga poses that involve crossing the midline of the body, like simple twists, stimulate both hemispheres of the brain, promoting better memory retention. These poses, disguised as playful movements, make memory-building a fun and engaging activity.
2. Brain-Body Connection
Yoga encourages a strong connection between the mind and body. This synchronization is vital for academic success. Incorporating yoga poses that involve coordination, such as "Warrior Pose" sequences, enhances the brain-body link. As children flow through these poses, they not only build physical strength but also cultivate mental agility
3. Stress Reduction
Stress can hinder academic performance. Teaching children simple breathing techniques like "Balloon Breaths" or "Candle Breaths" can help them manage stress and anxiety. These techniques serve as powerful tools for calming the nervous system, promoting emotional balance, and enhancing cognitive function.
4. Empowering Mindfulness
Beyond the immediate benefits for academic success, kid's yoga introduces children to mindfulness—a lifelong tool for learning and personal growth. Mindfulness practices instill a sense of self-awareness, emotional regulation, and resilience, preparing children not just for exams but for life's challenges.
Class Options
All these benefits are gradually gained through regular yoga practice, taught using a games-based approach that creates a fun, creative, and energizing environment for children. The Happy Yogi’s kids yoga classes integrate themes and stories with yoga poses, breathing exercises, and mindfulness-building activities. This non-competitive environment provides a safe space for children to explore body shapes, increase self-esteem, and develop healthy, supportive friendships.
Yoga Breaks During School Hours
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Morning Session: A 20-30 minute yoga break to start the day with a calm and centered mind. Simple stretches, sun salutations, and focused breathing set a positive tone for the day.
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Study Break Stretch: Short yoga sessions during study breaks. These stretches enhance circulation, prevent mental fatigue, and rejuvenate the mind for continued focus.
After-School Yoga Classes
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Duration: An hour-long class after school hours. Flexible timing based on school availability.
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Schedule: The Happy Yogi Greystones offers Kids Yoga classes throughout the school year, divided into two 10-week terms. The first term runs from September to Christmas, and the second term from January to May.