Yoga is Just Right for Kids
June 9th, 2009
I just loved working with the sixth grade students at Kingsbridge Academy, a HealthCorps school, in the Bronx. It is always inspiring to watch young students discover their own breath! We talked about the origin of yoga and how ancient yogis modeled asanas after observations of nature. Then it was off on a global expedition as the students traveled the world mimicking different animals and natural phenomena.
It is so wonderful to see the faces of new yogis light up as they draw parallels between their every day world and yoga. Not to mention it is amazing to witness when the awe of the ability of their body in a more challenging balance pose, such as Tree Pose or Crow Pose.
While adults around the globe have long had an appreciation for the sense of balance yoga can bring to one’s life, I can’t even really begin to comprehend what it might have meant for all of us yogis had we been exposed at a much earlier age. I am just grateful we are able to pass this unique tool on to as many children across New York City as possible.