Incorporating Games Into Yoga Class
The month of March was filled with yoga celebrating the blossoming of spring, new yoga games, and deepening our self regulation tools. Games have included Yoga Bingo, Musical Mats, Yoga Jenga, Yoga Stars, Yoga Museum, Detective, Red Light Green Light yoga, and more. Incorporating games into yoga classes offers numerous benefits:
Engagement: Games make yoga interactive and joyful, keeping children's focus and attention throughout class.
Physical Development: both slow and intentional movement as well as fast paced activity helps children develop strength, flexibility, coordination, and balance while having fun.
Mindfulness: Many games require focus, stillness, and deep listening– the building blocks of mindfulness. Some games teach deep breathing and relaxation.
Social Skills: Games often involve teamwork, cooperation, and communication, fostering social skills and emotional intelligence among children as they interact with their peers.
Creativity and Imagination: Many games incorporate storytelling, music, and creative movements, stimulating children's imagination and allowing them to express themselves in new ways.
Stress Reduction: Playing games can help reduce stress and anxiety in children by providing a playful and supportive environment where they can unwind and release tension.
Positive Associations with Yoga: Games create positive associations with yoga practice, making children more likely to view it as enjoyable and beneficial, which may encourage them to continue practicing as they grow older.
Looking forward to a lovely April and May!
Namaste,
Ms. Ellen
