Why are Siddhartha Public School’s students embracing Yoga?
We are developing young minds holistically
Yoga is an ancient practice with roots in India. It is much more than just physical postures. It’s a holistic approach to well-being that combines physical movement, breathing exercises, and meditation. While often lauded for its stress-reducing benefits, yoga offers a treasure trove of advantages, specifically for school children.
We believe that incorporating yoga into the campus routine equips students with valuable tools. They can traverse the academic and social demands of school life. We explain the benefits of yoga for students. They include fostering focus, memory retention, and self-discipline.
As the impact of yoga on student performance increases, let’s shine its light on the modern generation.
Navigating anxiety and stress
Between academic expectations, social anxieties, and extracurricular commitments, stress levels can climb quickly. Yoga offers a powerful antidote. Through gentle poses and deep breathing exercises, children learn to calm their bodies and quiet their minds. Regular practice decreases stress. It promotes a deep sense of peace and well-being beyond the classroom.
Mindfulness and Memory Retention
The ability to focus and retain information is crucial for academic success. Yoga plays a surprising role in enhancing these cognitive functions. Many yoga poses require holding still and maintaining balance, which strengthens the core and improves overall coordination. This newfound physical control translates to better mental focus.
Yoga practices for children in schools like Siddhartha Public School incorporate several techniques. It includes breathing techniques that impact brain function. It enhances alertness and memory consolidation. Studies have shown that regular yoga practice improves memory recall, test scores, and overall academic performance. We believe our school embraces yoga as a part of the overall learning experience for students.
Fun exercises for children to try at home
Mountain Pose (Tadasana): This foundational pose promotes balance and body awareness. Have children stand tall with feet hip-width apart, pressing the ground with their toes. Arms can rest at sides or palms facing forward. Encourage them to take a few deep breaths, feeling their breath travel through their body.
Tree Pose (Vrksasana): This balancing pose strengthens core muscles and improves focus. Start in Mountain Pose. Instruct children to slowly lift one knee, placing the sole of their foot on their inner thigh (avoiding the knee joint). Hold for a few breaths, then switch legs. For a playful twist, have them pretend to be balancing on a tightrope!
Cat-Cow Pose (Marjaryasana-Bitilasana): This gentle spinal flow promotes flexibility and relaxation. On hands and knees, with shoulders over wrists and hips over knees, have children arch their back upwards (Cow Pose) while inhaling. Then, round their backs towards the ceiling (Cat Pose) as they exhale. Repeat for a few cycles, focusing on the movement of the spine.
Downward-Facing Dog (Adho Mukha Svanasana): This invigorating pose stretches the entire body and improves circulation. Start on hands and knees, then push hips back and up, straightening legs as much as is comfortable. Heels may not reach the ground, and that’s okay! Encourage children to keep their gaze between their legs for a calming effect.
Child’s Pose (Balasana): This restorative pose provides a moment of relaxation and inward focus. Instruct children to kneel on the floor, sitting back on their heels. Fold forward, resting their forehead on the ground or a pillow with arms outstretched in front or alongside their body. Encourage them to take slow, deep breaths and focus on calming their minds.
Siddhartha Public School in Hyderabad, Boduppal area, is celebrating International Yoga Day. We encourage our students to embrace the holistic nature of Yoga. As children experience its advantages, they also understand its power.
