Strong Minds, Youthful Bodies, and Bright Spirits

Laughter, latin music, the chant of OM and silence - children experience it all during their fun filled yoga classes at Center for Yoga in Framingham, MA.

In a world where tests, the social scene, global issues, and family life are enough to overwhelm anyone, just being a plain ol’ kid is getting tougher.  It seems that many children are growing up faster, their attention is being lost while anxiety, depression and stress are being found.
 
Yoga is the tool to achieve the enormous task of providing children with a wellness of body, mind, and spirit. Children of all ages and physical abilities are discovering the benefits of yoga which facilitates self-confidence, clear-thinking, and the growth of responsible people in society.
 
Yoga poses require concentration while strengthening and stretching the body.  It builds coordination and skill, and offers an alternative outlet for energy . Breathing techniques and meditation open the mind fostering positive thinking, stress reduction, improved attention, increased self-esteem, and self behavior management. These skills and the fact that yoga is a fun provides children with strategies to make succeeding in school and in life easier.

Playful poses through storytelling, games, art, silly ways of breathing and quiet time begin the exploration of yoga. Age appropriate materials including books are used to supplement the yoga experience. Cooperative activities, self-expression and encouragement toward positive thinking are all a part of class.

As children become older, there is less focus on play and a greater focus on team work and understanding the philosophical and physical aspects of yoga. Poses, flowing sequences, breathing, art, visualization and relaxation techniques are part of classes to aid in the children’s focus of energy, physical strength, stress management and social and emotional support.
 
At Center for Yoga in Framingham, Massachusetts, Jennifer Gorgone offers classes to children ages 3 to teens. Her background as an Elementary School Teacher, Special Needs Educator and training in education for the hard of hearing and deaf, provides her with the foundation for bringing out the best in children.