Relax

RELAX: make or become less tense or anxious;  rest or engage in an enjoyable activity so as to become less tired or anxious

Not exactly an easy feat for our children these days.  With schedules that rival those of a busy executive, it’s no wonder our children have difficulty sitting still and paying attention in school.  However like any learned skill, relaxation becomes easier, more attainable with practice.  It’s all a matter of learning to connect with one’s breath.

When teaching yoga to children of all ages we see them grow in many different areas. As the children continue practicing with us over weeks and months, focus improves, balance becomes more steady, confidence soars.  But what is truly remarkable is how, after just a few weeks time of centering at the beginning of class and relaxation (Peacetime in children’s yoga-speak) at the very end of class, the children are able to focus on their breath and calm their bodies.

We are going to dim the lights now and lie down on our mats, keeping our bodies nice and long.  Place your hands on your heart and notice how fast your heart is beating.  This is because we have been exercising our bodies as we practice yoga.  Now it’s time for Peacetime.  Time to calm our bodies.  Breathe in and breathe out, breathe in and breathe out…

As we work our way around the room giving gentle temple massages to each child, its remarkable to see so many children enjoying this quiet time.  Sometimes a huge grin comes over a child’s face as we place our hands on their heads or a quiet thank you is heard when the massage is done.  

Often, when the class is over, we talk with the children about how our hearts are beating slower, how our bodies are feeling calmer, more relaxed.

Just think of how this skill could help children throughout their lives.  Using the breath to help the child who has difficulty falling asleep, using the breath to help the child deal with anger management, using the breath to calm themselves before a test.  And the beauty of it all is that it’s accessible to children of all ages.

We teach a number of classes each week in schools.  Just this morning one of the teachers said right after we taught her class. “I truly believe that if this generation could all get on board and start yoga at a very young age, our world would be a better place.”  We couldn’t agree more.