Yoga Teacher Training Forum

Yoga therapy for improving behavior of a child: The therapeutic system of yoga is defined as unification of body, mind and spirit in synchronization. This method of physical activity comprises of three basic fundamentals exercise, breathing and meditation. Practicing yoga techniques are proven to be highly advantageous for improving behavior of a child and overall wellness because during performing these exercises the cells of brain are readjusted and work more efficiently. This form of physical exercises is becoming widely popular in western world particularly in USA; the therapy of yoga is included in the curriculum of many schools and regularly instructs in school time like other subjects.

There are various reasons of developing behavioral disturbances in children as sometimes they suffer emotional problems due to biological, cultural and social affects. Psychiatric disorders in children are linked with hormonal imbalance, family oppression, and parental rejection or from chronic ailments and physical disabilities.

The children are unable to convey their problems correctly therefore these issues are articulate in their behaviors or acts. They are much more influenced by their surrounding personalities, relationships and atmosphere. The ancient methodology of yoga is a direct way to teach kids how to sort out personal divergence and problems. The behavioral unstable child is non cooperative, non receptive and not obedient therefore it should be remembered that introduce those techniques which appeal to the imagination of child in experiencing mental relaxation.

According to a research based analysis major changes take place in the behavior of children who practice regularly the different exercises of yoga. The report stated that it is the best way to teach children to stay calm, disciplined and self controlled also essential for managing behaviors and releasing inner stress. Teaching children stretching, breathing, body balancing and positioning techniques are highly beneficial in producing positive effects on their mind and helpful in solving behavioral issues in a healthy manner. For the duration of attempting posture the child will completely focus or concentrate on what he or she is doing that supports in building sense of self awareness, improving self esteem and self confidence. The therapy of yoga is helpful for increasing strength, flexibility, focus of mind and body by reducing stress or anger. Teaching poses in safe and protected environment benefitted kids with hyperactive behavior to calm down and keep composed by assisting their impulsive moves in positive direction. The session in a class educates children to perform with other fellow student together which is good for teaching team skills whereas breathing procedure naturally guide them to relax.

As per stated by yogic terminology emotional disturbance occur due to imbalance between Manas Shakti and Parana Shakti, Paranayama asanas work directly on mind and endocrine system to re- institute synchronization between mind and emotions. Yoga Nidra is practice to release inner subdued feelings from unconscious level of mind. Techniques of Karma yoga are helpful in releasing and re-directing energies of children in a much constructive way. Shashankasana is highly beneficial for child suffering from extreme anger as the asana regulate the flow of excess hormones from adrenal glands responsible for self control. A combination of poses like Surya Namaskar when performed before yoga Nidra will be good for emotionally distressed kids. Performing a pose called Sarvangasana affect secretions of thyroid glands which has a deep effect on physical, emotional and mental development of a child. The practice of Paranayama aids children in putting together all the forces of their personality.

The art of practicing yoga encourages children to clear their mind by concentrating on effort they are doing, strengthening body mind connection, boosting up self esteem and self confidence. Different studies conducted in USA and UK reveal that kids with hyperactive behavior after performing yoga Nidra show significant reduction in levels of hyperactivity, upgrading in class performance, improvement in awareness, decrease in restlessness and reduction in muscular tension.