In this month's kids yoga classes we will be focusing on taking care of ourselves and others. Here is a picture from last week's class as we worked as a team to make a heart shape. We will talk about ways to show compassion, kindness, generosity and patience. Here are some fun yoga games and poses to celebrate the heart:
Back to Back: Sit "criss cross applesauce" with your back touching your child's back (or siblings can do this when they have been acting up). Sit quietly for a minute. See if you can notice the other one's breathing in and out as their back moves against yours. See if you can synchronize your breathing! This will help you calm down and feel more connected.
Breathe in Love: You may have a ton of valentine cards around your house these days. Use one whole or cut a heart or picture from one of them. (You can cut a heart shape out of any scrap paper or cereal box!) Lay on your back in a resting pose. Hold the heart right up to your own heart. Take a deep breathe in and relax as you let the breath out. Think of someone you love and imagine loving them back-easy right?. Now think of someone you DONT love and try to imagine showing that person compassion, love or understanding. It's takes practice!!
Jump start your heart: When the days are long and you are snowed in with your little ones, it is tempting to turn on the TV and let them veg the day away. Kids need to exercise everyday even just for a few minutes. Try getting up off the couch and pretending to jump rope. See who can last the longest!!! When you are done put your hands on your heart and notice how fast it is pumping. Your body NEEDS to move! Kids who exercise and move more are healthier and happier.