Yoga is well known for helping to calm the mind and improve strength and flexibility, and now children in the Dungog area are reaping the benefits of it – with a twist.
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The classical yoga poses are being used as a basis for movement and taught in fun and interactive ways to help children engage with the gentle exercise.
Yoga instructor Helen Rubeli said the fundamental elements of yoga – body alignment, breath awareness, strengthening core muscles and releasing tension held in the body – were the building blocks for the class.
“Many classical yoga poses were taught in fun ways along with some new variations,” she said.
“It may not have looked like a typical yoga class for adults, but the basics of yoga were there.”
The classes, which are held twice a month on Saturdays at Dungog Uniting Church hall, encourages children to create the own poses and use their body to share stories and adventures.
“Even the more timid youngsters gained confidence and made new friends through partner poses,” Ms Rubeli said.
Ms Rubeli started the classes to help children bring family fun, magic and relaxation into their weekend.
She can see the change in the students at the end of the class. "It is beautiful to see the children's glee and how happy doing the movements and games makes them,” They are gently learning skills of body and emotion awareness and management to give them a resource-kit for life." The class is designed for children between four and 12 and is held from 10.30am until 11.30am. Parents and carers are welcome to join in.
The next class is on June 11. Cost is $10 per child and $5 for parents and carers. Visit www.sacredgroundhealing.net
