Inhale and exhale. See how that feels. Observe the space of your body when it is stationary and on the move. Explore positions as if you were a dog, cat, bridge, or a mountain. Feel the air you breathe, which is invisible and sustains you. Try releasing this air like you’re a little bee…
These types of commands, full of references to nature, characters and stories, can turn the practice of Yoga during childhood into something very special. A pleasant way for the child to comprehend the possibilities of his body, of its placement in the external space, of experiencing contexts of movement and stillness, in a continuous learning environment built from the connection between play and awareness.
“The more comfortable children are with their bodies, the better they will feel, regardless of where they are and what challenges they may face. This psychomotor development work through Yoga helps children to master their time and skillfully acquire the coordination of their gestures and movements. In addition to this active aspect of movement and exploration of the body, another part of the work is dedicated to introspection and exploration of their inner world, through moments of relaxation and silence, in which the child is invited to focus his attention on his inner being, learning to concentrate and find harmony with himself” – explains Professor Rudra, who gives Yoga classes to the Year 1 and Year 2 students.
He says that children receive Yoga proposals with great joy because there they recognize a chance to not only explore their bodies, but also to express their own movement or, in other words, express their individuality. “They are very happy to try relaxation techniques and enjoy the feeling of calm and peacefulness in an environment that they recognize as welcoming and safe,” says the teacher.
Specifically considering this period in our history, when we are being asked to stay at home and adapt our study and work routines, Yoga teachings can really make a difference, helping to maintain health and balance in the body and mind.
Particularly for the children, who are having to deal with the new aspect of distance learning that, in and of itself, is very challenging, and also with being apart from friends, teachers and the school routine, it will be very important to continue with the Yoga classes, which will be given by Professor Rudra, via online transmissions. This moment will allow the child to relax, have fun, move his body and, above all else, connect with the wonders of nature and the universe that seem to be so far off right now, in this isolation context, but that, in fact, can be brought really close, within ourselves. Just breathe and connect!
