The Benefits of YOGA for KIDS

Yoga is an ancient system of physical exercise which integrates the mind, body and breath.  Some of the many proven benefits are:

1.      Calm the nervous system

2.      Calm the mind

3.      Relieve the negative effects of stress on the body

4.      Relieve the negative effects of stress on the mind

5.      Teach self-care and self-management tools to children and adults

6.      Build self-confidence, self esteem and self awareness

7.      Build strength, flexibility, stamina and mind-body connection

8.      Support healthy relationships and community behavior

9.      Increases brain plasticity

10.  Increases learning readiness

11.  Helps increases academic performance

12.   Decreases ADD, ADHD and anxiety and depression


Today, children face so many more challenges and grown up situations than ever before. According to a recent study published in the Archives of Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine (conducted by the University of Maryland, Jan pub), the number of adolescents being prescribed psychiatric medications more than doubled from 1987-1997, and the rate of suicide increased by 109% for those kids between the ages of 10 and 14.

Even though this study is talking about kids older than preschool and elementary school, it’s important to keep and eye on what we can do now to provide our young children with tools to help them negotiate the journey of growth ahead.  Yoga is fun and gives them a sense of confidence, creativity and the ability to calm themselves and handle stressful situations.  It connects them to their own wellspring of strength, focus, and inner peace.   It develops their coordination, balance, and gross and fine motor skills, as well as giving them a space to have fun!


Jill Rapperport, Yoga Instructor, ERYT200, Yoga Trainer, Reiki Master, Personal Empowerment Coach, Specializing in children preschool, elementary, pre-teens and teens.  President and Founder, Soaring Eagle Yoga,   www.soaringeagleyoga.com, [email protected]

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