Children today are under a great deal of stress and their bodies show it. Yoga not only stretches and lengthens their muscles releasing built up tension and stimulating their internal organs, it also gives them the necessary tools to deal with every day pressures and moods. Particular postures such as the tree and the warrior instill a sense of calm, confidence and equilibrium. Holding of asanas(postures) provide them with strength and endurance. The children will soon learn the importance of stretching before doing any form of exercise.
Yoga gives children the opportunity to respond to quiet time, to connect with and become aware of their bodies, breath and internal universe. This useful tool is carried beyond the class.
To retain their attention Hindu mystic stories are told about the origin of the asanas.
At the end relaxation is encouraged through visualizations which they can relate to allowing their energies to settle and their mind to focus. Often they are encouraged to imagine being in their favourite place and observe how they feel in it.
Sometimes relaxation entails sitting quietly observing the gentle flame of a ghee lamp. They become so still and peaceful that it fortifies my belief that children yearn to move into their own quiet place.