YOGA FOR CHILDREN WITH SPECIAL NEEDS !!

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.