10 Yoga Exercises To Do Along With Little Kids

Yoga is a great way to promote physical and mental well-being for both children and adults. It provides an opportunity for bonding and relaxation, while also improving flexibility, concentration, and overall health. In this article, we will explore 10 yoga exercises that you can do with your little ones. These exercises are designed to be fun and engaging, making it easier for kids to enjoy and reap the benefits of yoga.

The Benefits of Yoga for Kids

Yoga is a fantastic activity for children as it offers numerous physical and mental benefits. Here are some of the key advantages of introducing yoga to your little ones:

• Flexibility: Yoga helps to improve flexibility and joint mobility in children, promoting better overall physical health.
• Strength: Many yoga poses require strength and balance, which helps to build core muscles and improve overall body strength.
• Concentration: Yoga is a practice that requires focus and concentration. By practicing yoga, children develop the ability to pay attention and concentrate for longer periods of time.
• Stress Relief: Yoga provides children with a healthy outlet to release stress and tension, promoting emotional well-being and relaxation.
• Body Awareness: Through yoga, children learn to be aware of their bodies and listen to their physical sensations, enhancing their overall body awareness.

Now that we understand the benefits, let’s dive into the 10 yoga exercises you can do along with your little ones!

1. Balloon Breath

Instructions: Sit on the floor with your child. Inhale deeply through your nose and raise your arms above your head, as if you are inflating a balloon. Exhale slowly through your mouth while lowering your arms, as if deflating the balloon. Repeat this breathing exercise five times, encouraging your child to join in.

The Balloon Breath exercise helps children learn deep breathing techniques, promoting relaxation and reducing stress.

2. Downward Dog

Instructions: Start on all fours, with your hands shoulder-width apart and your knees hip-width apart. Press your hands and feet firmly into the ground, and lift your hips up towards the sky, forming an upside-down V shape with your body. Hold this pose for a few seconds and then slowly lower back down. Encourage your child to mimic your movements.

Downward Dog strengthens the arms, legs, and back, while also stretching the hamstrings and calves.

3. Cat-Cow

Instructions: Begin on all fours, with your hands directly under your shoulders and your knees under your hips. Inhale as you drop your belly down, lift your chest and gaze upwards (Cow Pose). Exhale as you round your spine up towards the ceiling and tuck your chin towards your chest (Cat Pose). Repeat this flowing movement for several rounds, allowing your child to mimic your motions.

Cat-Cow improves spinal flexibility and helps to release tension in the back and neck.

4. Tree Pose

Instructions: Stand tall with your feet together. Shift your weight onto one foot and bring the sole of your other foot to rest on either your calf or thigh (avoid placing it on the knee). Balance and breathe in this position for a few seconds before switching legs. Encourage your child to find their balance and hold the pose as well.

Tree Pose enhances balance and focus, while also strengthening the muscles of the legs.

5. Butterfly Stretch

Instructions: Sit on the floor with your back straight and bring the soles of your feet together, allowing your knees to fall open to the sides. Hold onto your ankles or feet, and gently press your knees towards the ground. Take deep breaths in this position, and gently flap your legs up and down like butterfly wings. Invite your child to join in and flutter their “wings” too.

Butterfly Stretch stretches the inner thighs, hips, and lower back, promoting flexibility and reducing muscle tension.

6. Warrior Pose

Instructions: Begin by stepping your feet wide apart, with your toes pointing forward. Turn your right foot out to the side and bend your right knee, while keeping your left leg straight. Reach your arms out to the sides and gaze towards your right hand. Hold this pose for a few breaths before switching sides. Encourage your child to mimic your stance and movements.

Warrior Pose improves balance, stability, and strengthens the legs, while also promoting focus and determination.

7. Happy Baby Pose

Instructions: Lie on your back and bend your knees towards your chest. Grab the inside edges of your feet and gently pull your knees towards your armpits, opening your hips. Rock gently from side to side, like a happy baby. Invite your child to lie next to you and mimic your position and movements.

Happy Baby Pose stretches the hips, groin, and lower back, releasing tension and promoting relaxation.

8. Snake Breath

Instructions: Lie on your stomach with your feet hip-width apart and your hands under your shoulders. Slowly lift your head, upper body, and arms off the ground, arching your back like a cobra. Take a deep breath and hiss as you exhale, imagining that you are a snake. Lower back down and repeat the movement several times, encouraging your child to do the same.

Snake Breath strengthens the back muscles and improves posture, while also encouraging deep breathing.

9. Bridge Pose

Instructions: Lie flat on your back with your knees bent and your feet hip-width apart. Press your hands and feet into the ground as you lift your hips up towards the sky, creating a bridge shape with your body. Hold this pose for a few breaths before slowly lowering back down. Guide your child to follow your example.

Bridge Pose strengthens the core, glutes, and back muscles, while also opening up the chest and shoulders.

10. Corpse Pose

Instructions: Lie flat on your back with your arms by your sides and your legs extended. Close your eyes and take slow, deep breaths, allowing your body to fully relax. Encourage your child to do the same and spend a few moments in stillness together.

Corpse Pose promotes deep relaxation and helps to reduce stress and anxiety.

Precautions

While yoga can be a safe and beneficial activity for children, it’s important to take some precautions:

• Always supervise your child during yoga sessions to ensure their safety.
• Start with simple poses and gradually progress as your child becomes more comfortable and confident.
• Respect your child’s limitations and encourage them to listen to their bodies.
• If your child has any pre-existing medical conditions or injuries, consult with a healthcare professional before starting yoga.

Conclusion

With these 10 yoga exercises, you can create a fun and engaging yoga routine to enjoy with your little ones. Remember to always practice in a safe and comfortable environment, and most importantly, have fun bonding and exploring the benefits of yoga together!