Yoga Helps Kids Focus

Written by A. Simon August 2019

©️Minnesota Kids Yoga Co., LLC - Blog

 
 
 
 

Yoga Helps adults focus, so why not kids too…

When we think of mindfulness, we think of slowing down, taking deep breaths, becoming present in the moment, and noticing our surroundings (sounds, sights, tastes, etc). Therefore, when thinking about school one might picture a room full of kids that are all focused on a single task. However, parents often don’t realize (unless they are a teacher themselves) that focusing on tasks can be hard for some kids. Some kids are easily distracted. Some kids are much more interested in their friends, or in recess than reading or writing. So.. how can we help those kids re-focus? YOGA!

Yoga teaches kids to move their bodies, to think positive affirmations towards themself, AND it teaches kids to have patience by use of breathing skills. These skills are then used in situations beyond their yoga mats. When kids are in school, if they know how to calm themself with breath, they can subconciously refocus their brain on a lesson or school activity. This is a trate they will continue to use into adulthood! Who knew!?

Further, at the beginning of the school year, it can be especially hard for some kids to refocus their bodies on working at a desk. Their bodies might still be in “summer break” mode. They might be used to doing daily pool dates, camp games, or team activities. How can we teach kids to transition into a school year, to be fully successful? YOGA!

When kids practice yoga at home, in the morning, before school, they are helping to calm their bodies. When kids’ bodies are calm, they are better able to focus as well. Some yoga poses to try in the morning (you can do it with your kids too) include:

  • Mountain

  • Tree

  • Star

  • Horse

  • Wide Leg Forward Fold

  • Side Lunge

  • Down Dog

  • One Leg Dog

  • Half Pigeon

  • Fire Log

  • Floor Bow

When kids start their day with these poses, they stretch out their muscles, they get the blood flowing, and they ease any tightness/stress that could later make them less focused and more agitated! Last tip…. set a routine (ex. every Tuesday and Thursday morning have your kids and you wake up early to do family yoga). So, get moving and GET FOCUSED already!