rediffGURU Sabrina Merchant, founder of Li'l Yogis and a kids yoga expert, recommends five simple asanas you can teach your kids to do during the monsoon.
The rainy season brings with it a refreshing change after the hot summer.
But it also means that outdoor activities for kids are limited.
This can lead to restlessness and reduced physical activity which is crucial for their growth and development.
Yoga is an excellent indoor exercise that can keep kids active, improve their flexibility, enhance concentration and boost their immunity.
Here are five kid-friendly yoga asanas that are perfect for practising at home during the monsoon.
1. Warrior 1 Pose (Virabhadrasana I)
Benefits
Virabhadrasana-I helps in building strength in the legs, shoulders, arms and back. It also enhances focus, balance and stability.
How to do it
Tips for kids
Encourage kids to imagine they are brave warriors standing strong and tall. They can picture themselves holding a magical sword or shield.
2. Cat-Cow Pose (Marjaryasana-Bitilasana)
Benefits
This pose increases the flexibility of the spine, strengthens the back and neck and helps in relieving stress and tension.
How to do it
Tips for kids
Encourage kids to meow and moo as they move between Cat and Cow Poses. This adds an element of fun and makes the exercise engaging.
3. Lotus Pose (Padmasana)
Benefits
Promotes flexibility in the hips and ankles, calms the mind, and improves posture.
How to do it
Tips for kids
Imagine you are a serene lotus flower floating on a calm pond.
4. Standing Forward Bend (Uttanasana)
Benefits
Stretches the hamstrings, calves and lower back while promoting relaxation.
How to do it
Tips for kids
Pretend to be a waterfall, gently flowing down towards the ground.
5. Child's Pose (Balasana)
Benefits
Balasana is a restorative pose that helps in stretching the back, hips and thighs. It promotes relaxation and can help reduce stress and fatigue.
How to do it
Tips for Kids
Ask kids to imagine they are a tiny seed in the ground, growing and relaxing in the soft earth. This visualisation can help them feel connected and calm.
Practising yoga during the monsoon can be a delightful way for kids to stay active, develop their physical abilities, and maintain mental peace.
These five asanas are easy to perform and require minimal space, making them ideal for indoor practice.
Integrating yoga into daily routines can instil a sense of discipline, improve health and provide a fun and engaging way for kids to learn about their bodies and minds.
Encouraging children to perform these poses regularly can help them build a foundation for a healthy lifestyle and a positive outlook on life.
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