5 Useful Yoga Poses For Children

The type of activities to which we target our children is very important. Swimming, karate, theater, painting, etc... there are endless disciplines that enhance the skills of the little kids. What you probably don't know is that yoga poses for children are the most recommended to initiate them in the knowledge of their own inner "me".

Yoga originated in India as a form of mental and bodily stimulation more than 35 centuries ago. Europe was not aware of its existence until the seventeenth century when the archaeologist John Marshall found a seal with figures in positions unknown to the Western world.

Today there are many yoga schools that adapt to each person. Some focus more on spiritual well-being, others on the physical. There are some who consider it a purely religious ritual, and there is even therapeutic discipline.

Of course, among all of them, there's one dedicated to infants. Yoga poses for children are highly recommended, and their benefits, infinite.  In addition to yoga can be practiced at home, their exercises help their psychomotor development, strengthen the spine, improve flexibility ... they are a real wonder!

5 Useful Yoga Poses For Children

It's likely that your child's sport/discipline/practice doesn't particularly attract attention, but that's because he hasn't tried it. The postures that are explained below are a clear example of how an ancient technique can survive to this day and adapt to any person, including children:

Greeting to the sun

The child should stand with the legs open and try to lower down, parallel with the tips of the feet. It's one of the most recommended yoga postures for children for those who are in the process of initiation.

Its execution is easy and the little kids usually don't cost them the effort. Be careful not to hurt their back, especially if they move too quickly. For many children, it's fun to do the sun salutation quickly, but this impulsiveness can make them fall.

"I've been a seeker and I still am, but I stopped looking at books and stars and started listening to the teachings of my soul."

-Rumi-

Lumbar flexion

The position of lumbar flexure or clamp is perfect for the development of flexibility in the smallest. They should sit with their legs stretched forward, and try to reach the toes of their feet. They must maintain the posture a few seconds, enough to strengthen their joints little by little.

The backbone plays a fundamental role here because with this exercise children are allowed to give free rein to their imagination and try to overcome reaching the limit.

The tree

The child must imagine that it's a tree. They should stand straight and imagine that their roots are gripping the ground. Then they must move the sole of one of the feet towards the inside of the opposite leg and keep it for as long as possible.

Once stability is achieved, they must raise their arms above their head and visualize their own stability: it's a strong tree, able to stand firm in the wind.

The warrior

Start by bringing one of the legs forward and flexing it. The other should keep it stretched. Once stabilized, they must raise their arms above their head, as in the previous position.

While in this position, the kid must visualize that he's a strong warrior. It's a perfect way to enhance their concentration and strength, in addition to improving their balance quickly.

The cobra

The posture of "La cobra" is one of the best-known yoga postures for children. The child should only lie face down and, with the help of the hands, go slowly incorporating the upper trunk. The lower part of the body should be kept straight and stretched.

This exercise strengthens the spine and helps strengthen the upper joints, such as the arms and hands. Children often associate this execution with the form of attack of a snake, which they face with courage and pride.

Yoga is one of the most complete exercises that exist. Starting your children from a young age is a big step, as it will help them acquire certain skills and abilities. Indeed,  don't try to force them: there's nothing worse than a child who feels pressured.

You must tell them about the benefits of this sport and how happy they will be when they have finished the exercises. With sincerity, honesty and a good face, they will be the first to bet for their own welfare.