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 trained children’s yoga teacher, children’s and youth coach, and certified systemic coach and counselor (St. Gallen).

Yoga for children – Does it really work?

In a modern world where children's daily lives are often just as tightly scheduled as those of adults, the need for balance is growing. Children's yoga gives children the opportunity to relax, become more aware of themselves, and move in a playful way. In the mornings, children have to “function” at school or daycare, and in the afternoons, many take part in competition-oriented sports. Even the youngest children are under stress and often have little time for free play or moments of quiet. The consequences can include hyperactivity, poor concentration, and reduced body awareness.

Why is children's yoga so valuable?

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

The Benefits of Children's Yoga

Children’s yoga produces remarkable results even in very young children when the exercises are playful and adapted to their natural urge to move. It has a positive effect on the body and mental development while creating valuable moments of relaxation.

Yoga children...

... become bolder
... develop a flexible and healthy body
... improve their concentration and attention
... relax more easily and sleep better
... cope with stress more easily
... learn about and understand their bodies

Introducing children’s yoga in a playful way: How to make it work

At what age can children start doing yoga?

Children’s yoga can be practiced playfully with toddlers as young as 1 year old. It is especially enjoyable when parents or other family members join in. This turns time spent together into a wonderful experience for young and old alike!

Tips for the best possible start

Create a suitable environment:

Use a soft surface, such as a Play Mat, and ensure comfortable Clothing Line.

Activities for siblings:

In the meantime, younger siblings can keep themselves entertained with age-appropriate toys such as a teething ring or a rattle.

Mind the timing:

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

Embed in a story:

Children experience the movements more intensely when they are embedded in an exciting but brief
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 take root like a tree”

Stand on your left foot. Lift your right foot and place your heel against the inside of your left thigh.
Press your palms together and hold your arms either in front of your chest or extended above your head.

“Feel like a tree, rooted and secure.
It is easy for you to concentrate.”

Exercise 2: The Bear

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

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

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

Exercise 3: The Butterfly

“Who is flying by? A wonderful Butterfly.”

Sit up straight and place your feet on the floor. Gently open your knees outward so that the soles of your feet touch.
Hold both feet firmly and let your knees gently flutter.

“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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