I just had to share a
wonderful experience Marissa and I had yesterday. I heard a woman – Jodi – speak about doing
yoga with special needs children, on an online summit, and it ringed a bell for
me! As moms know, kids have different
dynamics with different people. And they
definitely have a different dynamic with their mama. Our sweet pea does not like to practice her
standing and walking with mama.
Well this mama is
determined to get our precious 3y.o girl walking, so I decided to travel 1.5
hours away for a private yoga session with Jodi. I loved how she used props, animal sounds,
music and singing to make yoga fun for Marissa.
It took Marissa time to warm up and feel comfortable, but soon enough
she was imitating our movements.
And what melted my heart
was when Jodi lay beside Marissa, facing her and did a visualization with her. While Marissa had a blanket over her, was
holding her baby and smiling at Jodi, Jodi told her to imagine a light running
through her body making each body part stronger and filling her heart with love
and strength.
I really enjoyed the yoga
session for 2 reasons, among others. One,
it motivated Marissa to move in positions in a fun, creative way to strengthen
her muscles and coordination she needs for walking. And she came right home and got in 3 of the
positions herself, even making the animal sounds that went with the positions J We did the positions together for at least 10
minutes and had fun together.
Two, because I loved the
idea of integrating visual meditations for her mind and soul – so she can
believe in herself and her strength and all her capabilities and also to give
her another example of how to remain more grounded and calmer when she is
frustrated or angry.
I can’t say enough good
things about Jodi and what she is doing.
And to top it off, I am not a yoga person but I am definitely a believer
in yoga for our sweet, special children! I have heard that yoga is great for
children to also increase their focus and ability to concentrate. If anyone is
curious or wants to learn more, Jodi’s website is http://www.nextgenerationyoga.com.
