Do you have a yoga practice? Is it an essential part of your life, no matter how busy you are as a mother and all the other roles that you juggle? Well, we think that’s great! It’s also possible to blend these aspects of your life, and to maximize the joy you get out of them. One way is to get your kids to do yoga with you. It’s possible at any age, including when they are just babies.
- Focus on the basics
If your kids are old enough to follow instructions, then focusing on the basics are a great way to introduce yoga to them. In general, children love the Tree Pose, Downward Dog and Warrior II. These are easy, beginner poses that are simple to get into and easy to mimic!
In fact, the Tree Pose is a fun way to practice balance with your kids. Holding hands with your kids to build a “forest” is a great way to get into the pose and helping them to develop confidence in their abilities at the same time.
Image from vibes365.com
- Play with animal poses
What are some of the first things a kid learns? The alphabet, and all the accompanying names of animals. So getting into poses like Cat/Cow, Camel, Cobra and Down Dog are intuitive ways to get your kids to connect with the joy of yoga. They can learn how the shapes correspond to these animals and have lots of fun at the same time!
- Start with 5 to 10 minutes at a time
Kids aren’t little adults – their attention spans are far shorter than adults who can manage an hour practice at a time. Starting with 5 to 10 minutes should be an ideal period of time to ease them into the idea of yoga, especially for those under the age of 10.
- Get them their own yoga gear
Want them to develop this habit for life? Slowly start getting them their own yoga gear (according to your own budget of course!) so that they can have a sense of pride and ownership about their practice, especially if they are already old enough to understand what they are doing. Kids love having their own space and their own stuff!
Also, look out for Mommy and Me yoga classes and Postnatal yoga classes where you can bring your baby along with you in a fun and gentle way to introduce yoga to them at an early age.
Featured image from Casa De Karma.
Thanks for sharing the super yoga tips.