With school holidays coming up you might not have yet figured out what best to do with your kids to keep them entertained over the extended festive holiday break. Of course school holiday clinics are always great and so is spending the time at home however have you ever considered teaching your kids yoga? Not only is yoga a fun way for kids to have a laugh with their parents, there are actually many proven benefits of children doing yoga such as anxiety management, body mindfulness, concentration and strength. Founder of Flow Athletic, Ben Lucas, shares some easy yoga stretches to teach your kids:
Boat Pose
A fun one for kids to practice their balance and extending. Similar to a boat, have your child balance on their bottoms with their arms and and legs up – rocking slowly similar to the waves in an ocean.
Bridge Pose
A great stretch for kids, have them lay on their back with their knees bent and feet flat on the ground. Resting their arms flat on their mats, alongside their bottom have them tuck their chins in and lift up their bottoms far into the sky.
Cat Pose
A common pose for adult yoga, the cat stretch is a fun way for kids to stretch like one of their favourite animals. Have their hands and knees flat on the ground and encourage them to round their backs and tuck their chins into their chest – pretending to be a cat!
Butterfly Pose
A great way to practice good posture is through the butterfly pose. Have them sit on their bottoms with a tall spine with bent legs. Ensure the soles of their feet are together touching and they are able to fan their legs up and down, similar to a flying butterfly.
Childs Pose
A great movement to take a moment of mindfulness and breathing. Have them sit on their heels bringing their heads down towards the mat above their knees. Placing the palms of their hands flat out Infront of them whilst extending – have them practice a few deep breaths at this point as they take a moment to relax.
