Poses That Renew: Putting Our Best Feet Forward

Poses That Renew

Now that the New Year has arrived, we have accomplished all of our holiday tasks and, maybe, reflected on what we hope the New Year might bring, from obstacles overcome to little blessings and big rewards. After all, with focus and mindfulness we can pretty much achieve any goal we set for ourselves and our children. Here are a few yoga poses to lead your family in to feel renewed and continue to make great strides in the days and months ahead.

Fly Like a Butterfly

Fly Like a Butterfly

This pose is excellent for children who are developing their gait. With your child in a seated position, have him bend his knees and put the soles of his feet together. If your child needs help, have him sit inside your lap so you both can do the pose as a pair. Just ensure that the child’s “sit bones” are on the ground. Then as you and your child lean forward while holding your feet, you both can get in a stronger position. Either way, it’s wonderful to have all butterfly yogis flutter their knees and stretch arms up to the sky in order to get bidirectional input that is fabulous for the brain. Try to stay in this position for a song or ten breaths.

Sa Ta Na Ma

While still seated in butterfly pose, encourage your child to do some gentle mudras. Essentially hand yoga, mudras foster focus and a sense of calm. They also instill comfort as a child repeats corresponding words. Basically, ask a child to repeat the words “sa, ta, na and ma” as the child touches his thumb to each of his four other fingers on the same hand, starting with the pinky. The “sa” word is thus said as the child is connecting the thumb and pinky, followed by the “ta” word when the child is connecting the thumb and ring finger. Repeat the words five or six times, whether to accomplish the exercise or to aid with transitions. If you’re in need of some assistance while changing activities, using this mudra is extremely beneficial.

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