"Yoga and other mindfulness practices have been the subject of an increasing amount of research as they have become more popular in the West. For example, science now supports many of the benefits traditionally associated with yoga practice, including decreased stress and increased physical and emotional wellness. Recent advances in neuroscience confirm that contemplative practices, such as yoga and mindfulness meditation, can change the physical structure of the brain, effectively training it to work in more positive and productive ways." - Jennifer Cohen Harper

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Mindfulness is a meditation practice that begins with paying attention to breathing in order to focus on the here and now—not what might have been or what you’re worried could be. The ultimate goal is to give you enough distance from disturbing thoughts and emotions to be able to observe them without immediately reacting to them.

 

In the last few years mindfulness has emerged as a way of treating children and adolescents with conditions ranging from ADHD to anxiety, autism spectrum disorders, depression and stress. And the benefits are proving to be tremendous. 

 

The wonderful thing about yoga for kids is that it can be used to teach them about self-confidence, discipline, stress management, and even respect. Stress reduction and self-acceptance are two of the major perks of mindfulness

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Asanas (poses), along with pranayama (breathing exercises), relaxation techniques and yogic philosophy can really help kids become more conscious of their movements and behaviors. Kids today are under a lot of pressure to succeed, both academically and socially, and yoga can give kids the tools they need to concentrate better, learn better and be more relaxed….tools that they can carry with them at home, at school and will be with them for the rest of their lives. 

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Benefits of Yoga for Kids

• Calms the mind, to help kids relax

• Develops self-discipline and self-control

• Encourages respect for self and others

• Increases self-esteem and confidence

• Promotes mind/body awareness

• Builds physical and mental strength

• Improves posture, balance and coordination

• Promotes team building & cooperation with partner/group poses

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Benefits of Mindfulness for Kids

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Focus & Attention

• Strengthens our "mental muscle" for bringing focus back where we want it, when we want it.

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Emotional Regulation

• Observing our emotions helps us recognize when they occur, to see their transient nature, and to change how we respond to them.

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Adaptability

• Becoming aware of our patterns enables us to gradually change habitual behaviors wisely.

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Compassion & Empathy

• Awareness of our own thoughts, emotions, and senses grows our understanding of what other people are experiencing.

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Calming

• Breathing and other mindfulness practices relax the body and mind, giving access to peace independent of external circumstances.

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Resilience

• Seeing things objectively reduces the amount of narrative we add to the world's natural ups and downs, giving us greater balance.

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Benefits of Kids Yoga/Mindfulness for Schools

• Encourages mindful thoughts, words, and actions which improves student and teacher relationships

• Supports anti-bullying education

• Improves listening skills

• Eases tension and worry that can accompany schoolwork

• Encourages kids to be in the present moment, which is ideal for learning

• Increases attention span and improves concentration

• Improve posture, which helps kids sit comfortably longer

• Kids learn kindness, compassion, and respect for self and others

• Classes are aligned with state and national PE standards

• Creates a calm, peaceful classroom

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~Mind & Body Awareness ~ Self-Regulation ~ Focus ~ Compassion ~