As children grow, they become more physically aware of their body. They are also learning use their body but sometimes their balance can be shaky. This simple yoga exercise known as Tree Pose will help improve children's balance, focus and clarity. Tree Pose also strengthens the legs and helps improve posture. This yoga exercise can be practiced on a daily basis and children will gradually begin to notice a difference in their balance and focus.
Instructions
1. Instruct the child to stand on yoga mat with their feet shoulder width apart. Tell them to plant their feet firmly into the ground. Instruct them to stand tall and proud like a big oak tree. Tell them to point their right foot in front of them and slowly drag their right foot to their left ankle.
2. If the child feels comfortable, ask them to gently move the ball of their right foot to the inside of their left knee (or to their inner thigh if they can hold their balance).
3. Instruct child to look forward (at the wall or a spot in front of them) and focus with their eyes. Tell them to bring the palms of their hands together and place them in Prayer Pose at their heart center. Instruct the children to concentrate on the spot in front of them and to imagine they are a tall oak tree and their right foot is the root that is drawing them into the Earth. The root helps them stay grounded and helps them maintain their balance.
4. Count with the child as you tell them to breathe in slowly through their nostrils and then breathe out slowly through their nostrils. Hold Tree Pose for 10 seconds. Instruct child to release their right leg slowly to the ground and bring their hands to the sides of their body. Repeat Tree Pose on the other side.
Tags: their right, right foot, their balance, their right foot, Tree Pose, front them, Instruct child