Importance of yoga practice in children

Yoga practice helps in physical, mental and emotional development of children. Nowadays academic pressures, screen time and social challenges seem to be higher among children. Therefore in this fast paced environment yoga becomes an important practice for children to become a healthy and balanced individual.

Flexibility, strength, balance and coordination will be physically improved among children. It develops body awareness, posture and muscle tone in children during the development stage. Practicing yoga regularly boosts motor skills and supports bone & joint health. Yoga is one of the healthy lifestyle habits. So it will help children, also in their adulthood.

Focus, concentration and emotional regulation will be mentally increased among children by yoga. To overcome anxiety, stress and overactive thoughts, breathing exercises and mindfulness meditation shall be taught to children. By practicing yoga daily children acquire improved concentration and mental clarity. It boosts the academic performance, creativity and decision making skills amongst children. Yoga is a healthy practice for managing emotions. It helps children to face challenges both inside and outside the classrooms.

Self esteem and confidence will be boosted by yoga emotionally. A positive self image will be created because yoga encourages children to appreciate their bodies and celebrate their strengths. Group yoga classes will be helpful in the following ways.

• Helps in teamwork

• Empathy & Sense of belonging

• Increase Social Skills

• Enhance Emotional Intelligence

From the early age itself parents are taking children to yoga classes to build values like patience, perseverance, kindness and gratitude.

In addition to physical, mental and emotional changes yoga also improves the sleep quality in children which is essential for healthy growth and development. Yoga practice in children such as deep breathing and gentle stretching help calm the nervous system and prepare the body & mind for good sleep.

Yoga provides a supportive environment to children where they can grow at their own pace. In a world full of competition yoga provides a non-competitive environment to children. Yoga helps children to connect with themselves, manage stress and build resilience. Introducing yoga to children in the early stage itself paves a way for healthier, happier and more mindful life for their well-being in adulthood.