What are the benefits of yoga and meditation?

Yoga for children improves flexibility, strength, attention, relaxation and sleep.

What is the structure of the classes?

Each class has a different theme. Examples include “Welcoming The Inner Quiet, Waking Up and Greeting The Day, and Relaxation and Concentration”. The class begins with an interactive game using easy movement and slow stretching. This introduces the theme for the class, prepares the body for yoga and gives the students a chance to get to know each other.

The yoga class follows the warm up. Each session targets length and strength in different core muscles that children use to support their motor skills. The use of the breath to relax, focus and activate muscles is incorporated into each pose.

The class ends with a short, multi-sensory based guided imagery meditation designed to increase sensory organization and concentration. As the students gain skill, the length of the meditation increases.

Shelley has completed certification in children’s yoga and children’s meditation. As a Physical Therapist and experienced yogi, Shelley has the unique ability to incorporate motor and sensory processing strategies into her classes to enhance a child’s ability to organize attention, calm anxiety, activate core muscles and plan movement.

The benefits of meditation have been well documented in adults. These include decreased stress levels, decreased blood pressure and heart rate and increased problem solving skills. The Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction Clinic at the University of Massachusetts Medical School has an international reputation in utilizing meditation as a mind-body treatment technique. The effects of meditation in children are only beginning to be documented. Early results include inceased calmness, relaxation, improved sleep, less reactivity and increased self-awareness.

If you would like more information or are interested in sponsoring a class, please contact Shelley at 905.227.8796 or.