Yoga nidra, in other words yogic sleep is an ancient technique from India. It is a state of consciousness between waking and sleeping in which the body is completely relaxed. In other words, it is the practice of guiding your entire body and mind into complete relaxation. As it helps relieve stress, it has now spread worldwide. It is a simple practice because it is taught lying down, guided by a teacher. It is also appropriate for kids of all ages.
I wanted to share with you some relaxation techniques that I use frequently. You can also practice these exercises throughout the day… when you need it in a moment of panic, anger, or sadness. It takes only 5-10 minutes.
1- Fingertip Massage
2- Four Breaths with Fingers
3- Stay Grounded
4- Breathe into your Belly and Repeat a Mantra
5- The 5 Senses
6- Be like Spaghetti
I sometimes prefer combining simple kids’ yoga poses and breathing exercises. While focusing more on breathing, it also involves movement. If you observe your breath during these exercises, you will see how the body is moving in accordance with the breath.
Here are some breathing exercises (with movement/flow) for children to make them focus and warm-up at the very beginning of kids’ yoga classes…
Interoception, often known as the “hidden sense”, is the sense that tells you what is happening inside your bodies. Being able to accurately perceive your internal state is quite important for regulating it. The interoceptive system is the basis for our physical and emotional regulation and therefore, it affects self-regulation, social thinking, flexible thinking, problem-solving and the development of social skills.
Frederick is a dreamer whose endless store of supplies warms the hearts of his fellow mice, and feeds their spirits during the darkest winter days. If you are a parent, you can read this relaxation story to your kid. If you are a kids yoga teacher, you can combine this relaxation story with one of …
A Guided Relaxation Story – Frederick by Leo Lionni Read More »
Most of the time, children are moving very fast. Whether they are studying, playing, reading, talking, they just keep going and going. Only when they fall asleep at night, they hopefully rest. What if they could give their bodies and minds some mindful rest during the day? They could do everything they do more easily. …
3 Mindful Practices: Body Awareness, Mindful Eating, and Mindful Listening Read More »
We are living in a world that constantly has noise: traffic, machines, music, social media, television. One of the most peaceful places is inside of you. Giving your mind quiet time throughout the day is healthy for your brain and your body. When you are quiet, you can ask yourself questions and listen to yourself. …
Relaxation for Kids – Teach Kids Silence with Three Mindful Practices Read More »
Kids can develop skills to become aware of their feelings and be more comfortable with them. The feelings come and go. They do not define the kids. They can even change through the behaviors. Here is another guided relaxation story about changing behaviors and feelings. My Magic Wand Lie comfortably on the ground. Put your …
Relaxation exercises help children manage their reactions to stress and anxiety. First of all, with muscle relaxation and controlled breathing, children learn the difference between tense and relaxed muscles. Then children can close their eyes and listen to a guiding and soothing voice. Practising relaxation exercises helps children learn how to relax and calm themselves. …
A Guided Relaxation Story For Kids: The Dream of MooMoo Read More »
Today’s children face a great deal of stress – academic performance, heavy scheduling, high achievement standards, media messages, peer pressure, family tension. Without healthier solutions, they often cope by talking back, giving up, or indulging in unhealthy behaviors. We must prepare children to become healthy, happy, and productive. Here are a few ideas for the …
