Yoga for Children
Last week I went to an event held at The Special Yoga Centre. The minute I walked into the studio which is tucked down a little alley in Kensal Rise just at the top of Ladbroke Grove, a sense of calm swept over…even with a room packed full of toddlers. The large space has three studios with high vaulted wood ceilings and holds a variety of yoga classes ranging from Hatha to meditation, as well as free yoga classes for children aged 2-13.
However, what really makes the centre unique isn’t the gorgeous space, friendly people and wide range of classes—it’s the fact that The Special Yoga Centre is actually a charity whose primary function is helping families with infants, children and young adults with a wide range of conditions including cerebral palsy, Down’s syndrome, Prader-Willi syndrome, hemiplegia, autism, epilepsy, attention deficit disorder, ADHD and other physical and development difficulties. They specialise in yoga teacher training focused on children and are a recognized Centre of Excellence in this field—and the only centre of its’ kind in the UK. The classes range from one to one to group sessions depending on the needs of the child.
Watch this video to hear testimonials from clients of the centre:
Benefits of Yoga
Yoga is a holistic approach to therapy. It strengthens the body, calms the mind and increases spiritual awareness. The benefits of yoga in children with special needs can include:
- improved motor control
- develop physical strength
- increases flexibility
- self awareness
- establish calmness
- improved concentration
- reduces hyperactivity
- better quality sleep
- reduce fear and anxiety
For more information on The Special Yoga Centre, please visit:
