Dieser Beitrag wurde geschrieben von Nadine Meybauer

Playful yoga for the little ones: An oasis of calm in hectic everyday life

Nadine Meybauer

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

Yoga for children - Does it really work?

In a modern world where children's everyday lives are often just as tightly scheduled as adults', the need for balance is growing. Children's yoga gives children the opportunity to relax, tune into themselves, and move in a playful way. In the mornings, children have to “function” at school or kindergarten, and in the afternoons, many take part in competitive sports. Even the youngest children are under stress and often have little time for free play or quiet moments. The effects can include hyperactivity, difficulty concentrating, and reduced body awareness.

Why is yoga for children so valuable?

Our experiences in childhood shape us and have a decisive influence on how happily and successfully we navigate life as adults. Children's yoga helps children develop mindfulness and promotes relaxation.

The benefits of children's yoga

Children’s yoga produces remarkable results even in the youngest children when the exercises are playful and tailored to children’s natural urge to move. It has a positive effect on the body and mental development, and creates valuable moments of relaxation.

Yoga children...

... are becoming bolder
... develop a mobile and healthy body
... improve your concentration and attention
... relax more easily and sleep better
... handle stress more easily
... get to know and understand their bodies

Introducing children to yoga through play: Here's how to do it successfully

At what age can children start yoga?

Children as young as 1 year old can enjoy yoga in a playful way. It’s especially fun when parents or other family members join in. This makes spending time together a wonderful experience for young and old alike!

Tips for getting off to the best possible start

Create a suitable environment:

Use a soft surface, such as a Play Mat, and make sure to wear comfortable Clothing Line.

Activities for siblings:

The younger siblings can keep themselves occupied in the meantime with age-appropriate toys such as a teething ring or a rattle.

Note the timing:

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

Embed in a story:

Children experience the 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's a wonderful day. In a clearing, we see the first tree.

Exercise 1: The Tree

“We root ourselves like a tree”

Stand on your left foot. Lift your right foot and rest your heel against the inside of your left thigh.
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.
You find it easy to concentrate.”

Exercise 2: The Bear

“A big, gentle Bear appears from behind the tree.”

Bend one leg forward and keep the other straight.
Stretch your arms out to the sides or up.

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

Exercise 3: The Butterfly

“Who’s flying by? A wonderful Butterfly.”

Sit up straight and place your feet on the floor. Let your knees fall loosely out to the sides so the soles of your feet touch.
Hold both feet firmly and gently bounce your knees.

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

Nadine Meybauer

As a children’s yoga teacher, children’s and youth coach, and certified systemic counsellor from St. Gallen, Nadine loves creating new course content in beautiful natural settings. Her passion is giving children and their companions unforgettable experiences in nature that promote movement and inner balance.

Mehr Informationen über Nadine Meybauer findest du hier.

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