Kids Yoga: It’s about breathing, stretching, gratitute
Yoga encourages self-acceptance and confidence without the pressure of competition. In group classes, children learn to support and respect each other, creating a positive social environment. As they master new poses and breathing techniques, their sense of accomplishment grows, fostering resilience and a healthy self-image that carries over into other areas of their lives.
IN a world where screens are everywhere and schedules are packed tighter than a school lunchbox, a growing number of parents are turning to a surprising source of calm for their kids – yoga.
Eshara Ramphal, founder of SweetKidz Yoga and Mindfulness, runs gentle, fun-filled Saturday morning classes in Escombe, Queensburgh. Her mission is to bring balance, breath, mindfulness and a bit of bendiness to little bodies and big emotions.
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“We can’t completely remove devices from children,” she added with a laugh, “but we can equip them with the tools of breath and awareness. Yoga helps them focus, become more mindful, and even improves their academic performance.
“Yoga teaches us to pause and live with awareness,” said Ramphal. “We wake up stressed, overwhelmed by long to-do lists. Our children are overwhelmed with homework, school activities, their extra-curricular schedules … yoga helps us reset our mind, body and breath.”
Here’s how yoga is helping young yogis thrive:
1. Stronger bodies, sharper minds
Yoga poses help strengthen the core, improve posture, and enhance muscle control. Breathing exercises support clearer thinking and emotional regulation.
2. Bend it like a butterfly
Flexibility and co-ordination are developed in a playful way such as downward dogs, tree poses, and lots of giggles.
3. Chill skills for life
Mindfulness techniques help kids manage anxiety and stress with calm confidence.
4. Kind hearts, clear intentions
Yoga teaches children to act with compassion and purpose, helping them connect with others in meaningful ways.
5. Focus Power
Attention spans increase and self-esteem blossoms as kids gain a sense of mastery over their bodies and thoughts.
6. Tuned-in thinking
Through mindful breathing and movement, children learn to slow down racing thoughts and become more present.
7. Gratitude attitude
Regular practice nurtures a sense of appreciation for small joys.
8. Mindful munching
Yoga brings awareness to healthy eating habits and encourages kids to listen to their bodies.
Ramphal’s classes blend movement, music, breathing and storytelling in a way that keeps kids engaged and smiling from start to ‘savasana’.
“Children with special needs and who are on the autism spectrum are already enjoying the benefits of kids yoga and mindfulness,” she added.
Classes are held every Saturday at Dharma Wellness and Yoga in Escombe for children between the ages of three and 12. For more information call 060 753 3644.
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