Although I love the months of summer, the month of August reminds me that it is time to say goodbye to the long hot nights, and welcome a fresh start to the new school year. Although its been some time since I was a student myself, wouldn't it be great if more students had a year of excitement, learning and yoga to look forward to when they go back to school?
I wish every student could benefit from yoga in the way that I did when I was in college. If they started earlier in school, it would help kids so much more as they matured. Here are a few reasons why:
1. Face it, school is incredibly stressful. From going into a different classroom on the first day, taking tests, meeting new people, and not sure if everyone likes you. Teaching kids to manage stress through movement and meditation will help them in all areas of their daily lives. Its a valuable skill to remain calm in the storm.
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2. More and more children are overweight. Michelle Obama has recognized that childhood obesity is an epidemic. Part of a yogic practice is to help kids develop a mind and body awareness through making healthier choices throughout their lives, and sharing it with others.
3. Practicing yoga helps one develop focus to remain in the postures and be aware of your breathing. When one learns how to increase their focus and master balancing postures, it increases one's confidence and ability to learn. Increase focus=increasing attention span=greater learning. Not a bad equation...
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4. Although kids yoga can't stop bullying, it encourages people to love themselves, others and embrace all the things that make them unique and themselves. Dr. Seuss once said, "Be who you are and say what you feel, because those who mind don't matter and those who matter don't mind."
5. More information is being published that underscores how yoga improves students performance in school. As arly as 2003, a study conducted by the University of California demonstrates that student's behavior, physical health and academic performance, as well as attitudes toward themselves improved when they practiced yoga. Articles in Yogainmyschool.com shows how yoga is helping kids in college and across the nation.
Do you think yoga should be a part of the curriculum in your school system?
