We know children are natural yogis.
As infants they can bend and move with ease.
As toddlers they’re focused on the present moment and nothing else.
And as they grow they begin to build connections with themselves, others, and the world around them.
So why is it that 1 in 5 children and youth in Ontario experience some form of mental health problem? (CMHO)
Why are there 28,000 children and youth on the waiting list for mental health services in Ontario, some waiting 2+ years? (CMHO)
We don’t know the exact answer, but I think we can wager a guess.
At Appleseed, we know that as kids grow up they are easily pulled into the downward spiral of distraction and disconnection - especially during this global pandemic. Kids Help Phone reported a huge increase from 2019, navigating over 4 million calls, texts, and visits to their self-help resources in 2020 (The Star) We deeply believe all kids can live rooted in their connection to themselves, others, and the Earth through yoga and mindfulness, so they can grow up healthy, balanced, and resilient - just as they were born to.
So, why yoga?
There are many reasons to practice yoga that you may have heard before:
Yoga improves strength, balance, flexibility, and coordination
Yoga increases focus, concentration, and emotional awareness
Yoga supports sleep and rest by tapping into our parasympathetic (rest and digest) nervous system
We could go on all day! But did you know that the same benefits that you may experience from yoga, are the exact same benefits that your child can benefit from as well?
But yoga is relaxing for me, how can I get my child to enjoy these benefits? They’re never calm!
The wonderful thing about kids yoga, is that we don’t expect children to be still and quiet the whole time - but know that:
They are improving strength, balance, flexibility, and coordination as they move around the room like a huge brachiosaurus - and when they move through a big snow pile.
They are increasing focus, concentration, and emotional awareness as they choose whether to become a tall, standing tree in their tree pose, or a fallen tree in the forest as they lie on their back in the same shape - and when they notice that they need a break from homework, and take one.
They are supporting good sleep and rest habits when they notice their breath as we relax at the end of class for a story or short meditation - and when they choose a storybook over screen time before bed.
They are enhancing their mind-body connection in so many ways just by being present with themselves in their yoga practice and in their everyday lives.
We know that now more than ever we need to maintain that present awareness in our children, and yoga and mindfulness is one of many ways to do just that. For more information on how to help your child navigate their mental health, check out Children’s Mental Health Ontario (CMHO) resources . And as always, take a moment to breathe, and move or be still (whatever you need!) today, even if it’s just for two minutes - for yourself and your child.
With love and kindness,
Sara