Yoga isn’t just for health-conscious adults. Introducing yoga to young children can be more than just a playful activity; it’s a holistic approach to fostering physical, mental, and emotional well-being from an early age. Plus, parent-baby yoga is a great fun way for kids to bond with their parents while meeting others their own age.
The benefits extend beyond the yoga mat, influencing various aspects of a child’s development. From enhancing flexibility and coordination to promoting mindfulness and stress relief, yoga offers a myriad of advantages that contribute to a healthy and balanced lifestyle.
“The most obvious thing that we observe in the children who attend our Kids Yoga classes is their intense happiness at being with other children, creating, and challenging themselves in very creative ways,” says Bruno Di Angelis, founder and owner of Avisha Space.
“Kids Yoga is a time for them to disconnect from phones and digital gadgets and reconnect with the essence of what it means to be a child, playing with their imagination and making handcrafted toys while also developing confidence, attention, and a genuine sense of well-being through disguised yogic exercises.”
He continues: “Another very interesting observation that I’ve made is that, because our classes allow one parent to accompany their child, the parent enjoys the experience just as much [as], if not more than, the child. I can say this for myself too, as I also attend classes with my daughter, Alissa. For them, it is a moment when they can forget about their adult responsibilities and rediscover the simple joy of being alive and enjoy without reservation. It’s very touching to see these things, and the happiness of both parents and children is what keeps us going.”
It’s indeed a special bonding moment for parents and kids to spend together, away from all distractions that today’s world throws their way.
Theresa Parsonage, founder of Taozi Tree Yoga, shares: “As a mother to four energetic little ones, our household is a bustling haven of activity, and I’m immensely grateful that yoga has seamlessly woven into their lives. Whether it’s participating in Yoga in the Park during summer with Ross, or our dedicated Family Yoga classes, or simply practicing deep breaths together before dinner, creating pockets of peace and mindfulness has become a cornerstone of our family life. These small moments of stillness serve as precious keys to the treasure chest of presence, preventing life’s rapid pace from causing us to miss out on the magic inherent in our shared moments. Our commitment to this value is further reinforced by the Kids Yoga classes at Taozi, led by the phenomenal Sandra. Her attention and creativity bring astonishing richness to each class, and Mia, our 6-year-old, adores her. Sandra not only imparts the benefits of yoga but also serves as a mentor and loving role model, offering Mia a unique and priceless connection outside the realms of parent or school teacher. Through Kids Yoga, Mia discovers not just physical flexibility but also the mental space to be fully present and engaged. It’s a gift that goes beyond fun, fostering a sense of care, importance, and deep connection for our daughter.”
In Beijing, Taozi Tree Yoga and Avisha Space regularly hold mama and baby yoga sessions every week.
For slightly older kids, Avisha Space holds weekly kids yoga, where kids ages 4-6 can explore their creativity, strengthen their bodies and minds, and most importantly, have FUN!
Images: Taozi Tree Yoga, Avisha Space
