Our children’s brain and nervous system are rapidly growing and developing. Our beautiful nervous system comprises of nerves and cells which transmit signals between different parts of our bodies thereby maintaining balance, regulating emotions and responding to stress. Therefore, a healthy brain and nervous system play a crucial role in our physical, mental and emotional well-being.

What does this have to do with yoga, movement and dancing? 

Moving our bodies and exercising have a remarkable impact on our nervous system. It has a calming effect on our minds and it is known to reduce stress and anxiety. So when we move our body and we help our kids do the same, our bodies release endorphins which help us feel good. Yoga is a wonderful way to practice mindfulness and helps with building motor skills, developing posture, and also helps us and our kids sleep better. It is a great way for kids to learn about their bodies and their strengths and improve their nervous system health. 

Futhermore, moving our bodies and getting playful with our kids helps build connection, stimulates their brain function, helps us and them physically, mentally and emotionally. 

Parenting is 80% connection and 20% guidance, because until children feel connected, that have no reason to follow our guidance. Play and movement builds connection and strengthens the parent child relationship and invites more cooperation and collaboration.

Kids are wired to connect and they designed to move. Whether you have an infant, a crawling baby or a toddler – yoga movement and dancing is something all kids enjoy because they get to be in their natural element and do what they are built to do. And cherry on the cake is that they get your undistracted attention and energy. 

Emotional regulation 

Parenting can feel stressful at times. And when we stay regulated, we can help our kids stay regulated. Moving our bodies is not only great for us but it also helps us model healthy regulation for our kids. Young children are often overcome with intense and big feelings in their bodies. Moving, shaking, dancing, jumping helps in relieving pent up stress and restores equilibrium in their little bodies. 

What can you expect in the lesson?  

It is a 45 minute lesson keeping the attention span of little kids in mind. The lesson starts with a high energy warm up, dancing and stretching our bodies. Then we go on a Yoga adventure. 

The yoga adventure is designed to helps little kids learn yoga poses through a fun and exciting story. The goal is also to foster connection, teach impulse control and teach them some calming tools like different breathing techniques. Young kids lack impulse control. Rhythmic movements and games like simon says, freeze, help them practice impulse control. For example-  stopping when the music stops and starting movement when it starts again. The yoga adventure is aimed at inviting kids to get creative, curious and try something challenging. 

The last section of the lesson is focused on stretching, breathing and cooling down. We finish the lesson with some calming music, and singing my favourite body positivity song. (https://www.instagram.com/p/Cj2SyxIoFde/) I believe that we can raise kids who feel secure within themselves by teaching them how amazing our bodies are from a young age. 

Lets offer our bodies the love and gratitude it deserves.