Is Practicing Yoga Good for Kids?

As parents today, one of our greatest concerns is getting our kids moving more. We worry about them sitting in front of screens too much. We worry that they don’t enjoy sports or exercise and that they don’t socialize in the real world. We understand that technology is a big part of their lives and that learning how to use it will help them in the future. We’re not so behind the times that we don’t appreciate the value of technology and the importance that it holds for our kids. But, we’re keen to find a balance. 

We want our kids to enjoy exercise, to find their own healthy habits that will keep them fit and strong into adulthood. We want to teach them how to care for their bodies and the importance of movement. Above all, we want them to be healthy. 

You might have already considered the obvious options, like taking your kids swimming or joining a sports club. But have you thought about yoga? Let’s take a look at some of the reasons that practicing yoga could be good for your children. 

It Has Huge Health Benefits

If you’ve never done yoga, you might think it’s just a bit of stretching, but that couldn’t be further from the truth. Regular yoga practice, even at a moderate level suitable for children, builds muscle tone and improves flexibility. It can also boost circulation, lower blood pressure and ease tension in the muscles.

Educational Benefits

Yoga isn’t just good for the body. It can also help children at school. Children that practice regular yoga often find it easier to fall asleep at night, meaning they are more refreshed for school. Yoga can also boost mental agility and improve focus and concentration levels. 

It’s Fun

Yoga can be great fun. Programs aimed at children often feature bright colors and games, and may even be based around their favorite TV shows or characters. 

Anyone Can Do It

Children often feel excluded if they aren’t good at things. The child that is picked last for football in the playground soon stops wanting to play. They don’t all have natural sporting abilities, and it can be hard to keep the ones that aren’t naturally gifted interested. If your child has developmental issues or delays, or problems with their body, it can be even harder to find exercises that they can enjoy comfortably. 

Yoga is for everyone. Aids like yoga bolsters and blocks can offer them support and make things easier, while poses can be modified to suit everyone. 

It’s Easy to Do at Home

You don’t have to go to the gym or join a group to do yoga. You can practice at home, together as a family. You don’t need free hours, a few minutes can be enough, and no one needs to see you. Yoga is easy to do at home, no matter how busy you are. 

It Can Reduce Anxiety

More children today suffer from anxiety, anxiety disorders and other mental health conditions than ever before. This is in large part due to the pressures put upon them. Yoga is a great way to help them to manage their stress, ease tension and reduce anxiety.