Playful children's yoga for the little ones: An oasis of calm in a hectic everyday life

Nadine Meybauer

She is a certified children's yoga instructor, child and youth coach, as well as a certified systemic coach and consultant (St. Gallen).

Yoga for Kids – Does It Really Work?

In a modern world where children's daily lives are often as scheduled as those of adults, the need for balance is growing. Children's yoga offers kids the opportunity to relax, connect with themselves, and move playfully. In the mornings, children have to "perform" at school or kindergarten, and in the afternoons many are active in competitive sports. Even the youngest are under stress and often have little time for free play or moments of calm. The consequences can be hyperactivity, difficulty concentrating, and reduced body awareness.

Why is children's yoga so valuable?

Our experiences in childhood shape us and have a decisive impact on how happy and successful we are as adults. Children's yoga helps kids develop mindfulness for themselves and promotes relaxation.

The Benefits of Children's Yoga

Children's yoga already shows remarkable results in the little ones when the exercises are designed playfully and adapted to the children's natural urge to move. It has a positive effect on the body and mental development and creates valuable moments of relaxation.

  • ... are becoming bolder

  • ... develop a mobile and healthy body

  • ... improve your concentration and attention

  • ... relax more easily and sleep better

  • ... manage stress more easily

  • ... get to know and understand their body

Introducing children's yoga playfully: How to succeed

At what age can children start yoga?

Children's yoga can be playfully practiced with toddlers from 1 year old. It is especially fun when parents or other family members join in. This way, the time spent together becomes a wonderful experience for both young and old!

Tips for the optimal start

Create a suitable environment:

Use a soft surface, like a Play Mat, and ensure comfortable clothing.

Activities for siblings:

The younger siblings can meanwhile occupy themselves with age-appropriate toys like a teething ring or a rattle.

Pay attention to timing:

Pay attention to the child's condition that day. Tired or hungry children are harder to motivate.

Embed in a story:

Children experience movements more intensely when they are embedded in an exciting but short
story.

A little trip to the forest: Yoga exercises for children

Let's go into the forest and enjoy the blue sky. The birds are chirping, the sun is shining, and it is a wonderful day. In a clearing, we see the first tree.

Exercise 1: The Tree

"We root ourselves like a tree"

  1. Stand on your left foot. Lift your right foot and place your heel on the inside of your left thigh.
  2. Press your palms together and bring your arms either in front of your chest or stretched above your head.

"Feel like a tree, rooted and secure.
It becomes easy for you to focus."

Exercise 2: The Bear

"A big, gentle Bear appears behind the tree."

  1. Bend one leg forward and keep the other stretched out.
  2. Stretch your arms to the side or upwards.

"You are like a big, strong Bear and have endless strength."

Exercise 3: The Butterfly

"Who is flying by? A wonderful Butterfly."

  1. Sit up straight and place your feet on the floor. Open your knees gently outward so that the soles of your feet touch.
  2. Hold both feet firmly and let your knees gently sway.

"You are like a Butterfly in the wind. Every Butterfly is unique and wonderful."

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