Beating spring fever: Yoga for children

Spring fever is the term used to describe the excitement and feeling of restlessness that comes with the warmer weather and seasonal change. The good weather, the surge of vitamin D and the sense that school is soon coming to an end can affect children. This feeling boosts their natural desire to move and get outside.

Restlessness can often disrupt daily routine and keeping your child focused can become difficult. However, a mindful approach to this change in mood and behaviour can be beneficial.

Yoga for children is a structured way for them to keep their bodies moving and calm an overstimulated nervous system. It is a way to give them some fun and movement, while also bringing their attention inward and settling their minds.

Child’s pose

Start by kneeling on the floor, keeping the tops of your feet on the ground. Sit back on your heels and keep your knees together. Slowly, bring your head down to the floor. You can keep your hands by your side or stretch them out beside your head. Breathe in and out, holding the pose as long as it is comfortable. Use the pose as a chance to rest and relax.

Flower pose

Sit on the floor. Bring the soles of your feet together, diving your hands between your knees and under your legs. Place your hands flat. Lift your feet off the ground and “balance in your flower”. Breathe slowly. What kind of flower are you?

Tree pose

Begin by standing in the mountain pose. From your mountain, slowly lift your arms out to either side. Lift one foot and turn your knee out to the side. Slowly place your foot before the knee of the standing leg. Breathing gently, bring your arms up over your head. Slowly bring your hands down to your chest. Place your foot down and repeat. Imagine yourself growing like a tree.

Relaxation pose

Lie down on your back. Straighten your legs and lay your arms by your sides, with your palms facing up. Let your legs separate naturally and relax the feet. If you are comfortable, close your eyes and let your body relax into the ground. Let your body be supported by the earth beneath you.