3 Ways to Build a “Body Mindful” Movement with your Kids

Written by A. Simon - October 2019

Copyright - Minnesota Kid’s Yoga Co. LLC

what is “body mindful” …and how has it become a “movement” within the yoga community?

In a recent article published by YogaJournal, they spoke about the importance behind self-talk. Further, it is no secret that children (especially teens) in today’s world need reminders of how special they are. Kids are under countless stressors each day, and are bombarded with negative dialogue through social media. Therefore, body mindfulness requires a person to have a purposeful intention to choose words that nurture and validate all the beautiful things about themself. Kids need to learn to combat stress through self-affirmations. In all honesty, adults need it just as much!

In the article, “Yoga for Confidence,” body mindfulness is explained as finding the virtues that already exists in each of us — virtues such as courage, confidence, appreciation, gratefulness, and hope. When we (kids, teens, and adults) embrace the virtues that empower us, we embrace all the positive qualities that make us content.

Body mindfulness is not an emotion or attitude that can be grasped over-night. Instead, body mindfulness is a practice that requires repetition. Our inner dialogue doesn’t change through mere willpower, but through daily affirmation statements. When we use positive self-talk, each and every day, we change the way we see ourselves. Just as working-out or training for a marathon, self-talk takes time and commitment every day.

With that said, how can you help your children (and maybe even yourself) conquer negative self-talk? Read below to find out.

3 Ways to Build a “Body Mindful” Movement with your Kids

#1 - Start Your Day with an Affirmation Statement

It may seem silly to do at first, but write an inspiring quote on a post-it note. Each of us have specific quotes that resonate with us in a special way. Use the power of words to inspire a change within yourself. You can place the post-it on your bathroom mirror, or on your bedside nightstand. You can place it next to your coffee machine, or even on your desk at work. For kids, you as their parent, can help them find a quote. Together you can write it, place it in their backpack, or surprise them with a note in their lunchbox. Whichever location you choose, make sure it is seen and verbally read each morning. When your child (and you) start each day with a positive thought, it creates a pattern of optimism which can be carried throughout life.

#2 - Counter Negative Thoughts with Consistency

As stated above, practice makes perfect! Although no one will ever be perfect, practicing is essential when changing self-talk. When you catch yourself, or your child, speaking negative things to yourself/themself — examples can include: “I look fat in these jeans.” or “I am not as good at ______ as she is.”, change it immediately! Counter talking is a key ingredient to change. Therefore, say things like, "My legs look strong in these jeans, and I am proud of my unique curves.” or “I still have things to learn in______, but I am proud of how far I’ve come since last year.” Changing how one thinks, even in the littlest of moments, makes a big difference. Teach your child to counter think as well. You may not always know what goes on in that mind of theirs, but if you teach them how to counter-think, at least you are equipping them with a useful tool they can use when they need it.

#3 - Practice Mindfulness with Breath

In yoga, especially yoga for kids, we talk a lot about the importance of breath. Breath is a powerful tool to aide in mindfulness. As we focus deeper on our breath (the sound it makes, the length of it, and the way if feels in our chest) we focus less on our thoughts. Especially for teenagers, giving them the tool of breath when they are in social situations can help them overcome self-doubt. Teenagers are at a prime age of low self-esteem. Why? They are going through emotional, physical, and social changes. Their bodies are taking on new chemicals due to puberty. Their bodies are growing at new rates, and developing in unique ways. Their friends are changing. Finally, they are constantly navigating a new world where self-awareness is a main focus. Breath with mindful body talk is crucial. When we slow down, become calmer, and think more clearly; we are better able to find inner-confidence. The same goes for kids — when they learn to self-soothe, they learn how to find a will to see life as it is, rather than as social media portrays it to be.

In conclusion, the 3 best ways to create a “Body Mindful” Movement in your child’s life, and in your own life, includes: affirmations each morning, counter thoughts on a daily basis, and powerful breaths to quiet the mind. Teach your kids to develop body mindfulness so that they can live a fuller life! Further, teach yourself to have it too! The more positive we are with ourself, the more positive our world becomes as a whole. Positivity is contagious — therefore, start spreading that joy today!