1 March, 2014

KIDS YOGA POSES

Circle Pose (Manḍalasana) 

This is rather a challenging and strenuous pose to perform.  This pose is usually associated with gymnasts and acrobats.  One has to be in a Yoga Master or expert’s supervision when studying or trying to perform this pose.   

One advice in doing this pose is that you should do this pose on an empty stomach.  It would also be good for you if you can try this tiring pose outdoors so you can get more fresh air.

Crocodile Pose (Makarasana)

If you want a total body and mind relaxation then this is the pose that you are looking for.  Aside from relaxation, one would also enjoy the different benefits:

1. The strenuous and vigorous work out will relieve the fatigue and stress away;
2. Blood pressure will be stabilized;
3. Flatulence and scoliosis will be prevented;
4. Good therapy for Asthma;
5. Breathing tract will be cleared and eventually breathing troubles will be reduced;
6. Digestive system will be improved as the pose stimulates the small intestines;
7. The organ’s functioning will be improved;
8. Loosens the shoulder joints, ankle, and hip; and,
9. The body will be toned.

Fish Pose (Matsyasana)

This pose concentrates on the belly, neck, spine, chest, and shoulders.  This can be applied as a therapy on constipation, fatigue, anxiety, menstrual pain, mild backache, and respiratory ailments.  This pose is not suitable with people who have migraine, insomnia, high/low blood pressure, and serious neck or lower-back injury. 

Here are the benefits associated with this pose:

1. Posture will be improved;
2. Deep hip flexors, rib muscles, belly muscles, front of the neck, throat, and belly organs will be stretched and stimulated; and,
3. Neck muscles will be strengthened.

Four-Limbed Staff Pose (Caturanga Dandasana)

The emphasis of this pose is on the wrists however those who have carpal tunnel syndrome and pregnant should avoid performing this pose.  Benefits include:

1. Arms and wrists will be strengthened; and,
2. Abdomen will be toned.

Great Hand Pose (Mahamudra)

This pose utilizes all three energetic “seals” to deliver and provide the vital energy within the body.  Benefits from this pose include relief from haemorrhoids, consumption, constipation, indigestion, chronic gastritis, fever.  It also reduces enlargement of the spleen, cures leprosy, and other diseases.

Headstand Pose (Muktahastasirsasana)

This pose simply balances the whole body with the head.  It is physically and mentally beneficial to an individual as it improves and increases the blood flow to the brain.  The critical focus of this pose is on the brain, spine and neck.  Various benefits can be gained from this pose and that are listed below:

1. Circulation of blood will be improved.  This enhancement leads to the arrest of scalp and hairfall as well as elimination of dandruff and premature greying of the hair;
2. Memory power and intellect are heightened as there is a fresh supply of oxygen to the brain;
3. Sound sleep will be achieved as brain stress and strain are relieved with this pose;
4. Pain the shoulder, neck and headache are reduced;
5. Phlegm and colds are cured with the consistent practice and mastery of the pose;
6. Sense of balance will be improved; and,
7. Body fat will be trimmed off gradually. 

Lord of the Fishes Pose (Matsyendrasana)

This pose offers the various benefits:

1. Appetite will be stimulated;
2. Abdominal muscles and organs will be massaged;
3. Blood circulation will be rejuvenated;
4. Makes the spine elastic; and,
5. Displacement of the vertebrae will be adjusted and corrected.

Peacock Pose (Mayūrasana)

Peacock pose develops the thighs, buttocks, abdomen, wrists, and forearms.  Those who have wrist and elbow injuries are not suggested to attempt this pose. 

Practicing this pose will give you the following benefits:

1. Forearms, wrists, legs and back torso will be strengthened; and,
2. Abdomen will be toned.

►►►Staff Pose (Dandasana)

The upper back is the anatomical focus of this pose.  Contraindications are for people with injuries on the wrists or lower back.  When this pose is performed, it becomes a good therapy for those who have Sciatica.  List of benefits are the following:

1. Back muscles will be strengthened;
2. Chest and shoulders will be stretched; and,
3. Posture will be improved.

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Supported Headstand Pose (Ekapadasirsasana)

If you have insomnia, sinusitis, asthma and problems in fertility, this pose would be a good source of therapy.  At the same this offers numerous benefits:

1. Spine, legs, and arms will be strengthened;
2. The lungs will be strengthened;
3. Pineal glands and the pituitary will be stimulated;
4. Abdominal organs will be toned;
5. Digestion will be improved;
6. Symptoms of menopause will be relieved; and,
7. Mild depression and stress will be relieved as the pose calms the brain.

 

Necessary caution should be taken when one is pregnant.  This is also not recommended for those experiencing headache, menstruation, high/low blood pressure.  Back/neck injuries and heart condition are also included in the list.

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Wheel Pose (Chakrasana)

The pose resembles that of a semi-circle shape and is very much alike to the gymnastic back-bend exercise.  The difference of this pose to the gymnastic exercise is the starting point wherein the former is in the sleeping position while the latter is on the standing position.  This pose should be avoided if you have hernia, cardiac disease or spinal injuries.  Also an experience teacher should be present to support or help you out on this pose especially if you are just beginning to learn it. 

Several benefits can be provided by this pose.

1. A good therapy for asthma, back pain, osteoporosis, and infertility;
2. Invigorate, stimulates, re-energizes preventing depression;
3. Helps in toning the abdominal muscles and in regulating digestive function;
4. Stimulates the pituitary and thyroid glands; and,
5. Stretches and strengthens the chest, lungs and muscles specifically the legs, buttocks, calves, arms, wrists, and spine.