Lyn’s Yoga Journey

I became a Certified Children’s Yoga Instructor through Childlight Yoga in February 2014, and began teaching after school yoga classes to students in preschool to grade 4. Sharing yoga with children was amazing!

I craved more knowledge, more tools, music, and lesson ideas. I sought further training with Childlight Yoga, receiving Level 2 Instructor Certification in September, 2014.  This summer, July, 2015, I achieved certification as a Creative Relaxation Level 2 Trainer in Yoga Therapy to address the needs of children with autism and different abilities.  I also was attuned to Reiki 1 in the spring of 2012 and Reiki 2 a year later.  In November, 2015 I completed a twelve hour on line course on Mindfulness Fundamentals.

I draw on my knowledge of pediatric growth and development, anatomy and physiology, and behavioral and mental health to challenge students within their individual ability, when planning and sharing a yoga class with children, to make each child feel safe and comfortable.

Why Yoga?

My intent in sharing yoga with children, is to teach them to be more mindful, resourceful and emotionally intelligent;  to provide them with tools to help them cope with life’s difficult situations, and to build resilience.

“Smart – is finding something you love, that feeds your soul, and immersing yourself in it so you can share it with those you love.” (anonymous)

In each children’s yoga class I link breath, physical exercise and relaxation to help:

• build resilience
• promote self esteem
• a healthy body
• a calm and confident mind

The classes for preschoolers thru preteen are filled with developmentally appropriate animated asanas (poses), pranayamas (breathing techniques), music and songs, games and creative movement, literacy (stories and books), arts and crafts, and relaxation.

Research

Research has shown that by practicing yoga children can:

• improve posture
• self confidence
• strength
• flexibility
• balance
• social skills
• problem solving
• relaxation (how to use their bodies and breathing techniques to self-calm and regulate their emotions)

This is so important for children today, in this media driven, busy world.  I hope to plant the seeds of practicing and enjoying yoga in the hearts of the children I teach.

Joy of Yoga

I continue to grow, in my heart and mind, as I practice yoga and meditation.  My husband recently discovered yoga, and practicing together is fun, sometimes humorous, and bonding.  My other passions include my family (3 children and 2 grandchildren), my yellow lab Willow, gardening, crafting and reading.

My feelings after every yoga class I share with children are captured in this poignant quote:

“To be able to tap into a child’s joy is wondrous.  When you are a part of that joy, it is beyond description.  Meet each class, each child, each pose with gratitude and your life will be truly blessed.”  (Anonymous)