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SALT LAKE CITY — Overbooked and over stressed children seem to be the norm these days. That's why some parents are putting their kids in yoga classes.
At Pilates Revolution and Fitness in Draper instructors make yoga fun with a game called musical mats and tree poses. But while they're having fun, they're also improving their concentration without the stress of competition.
"They can just come and learn to build self-confidence and have a good positive self-image," said yoga instructor Addie Robbins. "It's a place where they come and learn how to manage stress through breathing through relaxation through meditation."
They offer a noon and 4 p.m. class on Tuesdays for kids from 2 to 12 years old.
"In this world we have our kids involved in dance and sports and all these different things that really makes them tired, but yoga is something to help calm them down," said parent Sarah Robinson.
Another parent, Arlene Hymas said, "My little Van has lots of energy. Sometimes it's hard for him to focus, and they make it really fun."
Hymas also said it's a great winter activity. "Sometimes I struggle to find outlets for him to get his energy out," she said.
Pediatric occupational therapist for Primary's Children Hospital and certified yoga instructor Michelle Amussen said the research supports what she's seeing in her little yogi patients.
"A 2013 study that came out of California found children who did yoga had better participation in school. They showed less signs of stress, better emotional balance and they perceived themselves as more resilient to stress," Amussen said.
Amussen said yoga helps children in five main areas:
- Having fun
- Teaching body awareness
- Increases physical strength and flexibility
- Stress relief
- Connection between mind and body
Primary Children's is starting a kids yoga program at its Taylorsville clinic. Call 801-840-4370 to get on a list.
