| Yoga and kids go together. Kids want to move, | | | | physical needs independently. |
| explore their world, and interact physically and mentally | | | | Relaxation |
| in order to understand themselves and their | | | | The relaxation skills which yoga teaches show children |
| environment. Yoga provides a perfect opportunity to | | | | how to relax and focus. Using visualizations and |
| do so. | | | | affirmations helps children access internal strengths. |
| As yoga has gained in popularity and medical acclaim, | | | | Progressive muscle relaxation trains the mind |
| it has been implemented with positive results by special | | | | increasing body connections and awareness. In |
| needs individuals and groups. Yoga has proven | | | | addition, relaxation releases oxytocin, the feel good |
| effective for children with: | | | | hormone, and instils a sense of peace and |
| - ADHD | | | | acceptance. |
| - Autism | | | | Finding a children's yoga instructor who is |
| - Cerebral Palsy | | | | knowledgeable about special needs can be challenging. |
| - Down Syndrome, and others needs. | | | | The best place to look may be your local Yoga |
| While yoga is not a "magic" cure, it will encourage | | | | Association as they have lists of certified instructors in |
| physical activity, increase self esteem, provide relief | | | | your geographic region. Alternatively, you can |
| from symptoms, promote positive social interactions, | | | | approach a reputable yoga studio to inquire about |
| teach stress management, and develop muscle tone | | | | classes for kids or special needs. The yoga |
| and flexibility, along with providing numerous other | | | | community is one built on sharing, so even if they |
| benefits. | | | | cannot meet your needs or answer your questions, |
| Asanas | | | | they may know someone else who can. |
| Yoga poses, or asanas, are especially beneficial for | | | | As you incorporate yoga into the life of your child with |
| improving weaknesses while building off of strengths. | | | | special needs you will notice tremendous benefits. |
| Using photos of animals or small stuffed animals which | | | | These may manifest physically, emotionally, or mentally. |
| coordinate with the pose name helps children focus | | | | Often after just one session children will become more |
| and engage multiple learning skills. Poses can also be | | | | aware of their body and emotions. With regular |
| easily adapted to accommodate physical limitations | | | | practice these positive connections will be enhanced |
| and specific requirements. | | | | leading to improved health, better coping skills, and |
| Breathing | | | | increased optimism. |
| Teaching children yoga breathing provides one of | | | | Yoga should be used in conjunction with the advice of |
| yoga's greatest benefits. Yoga breathing increases | | | | a certified medical practitioner. Please continue to take |
| lung function and capacity. As well, it provides a | | | | all prescribed medications and follow other |
| calming tool which is accessible anytime, anywhere, | | | | recommended health and wellness routines. |
| empowering children to meet their emotional and | | | | |