Yoga benefits every type of person, but can be especially beneficial to a special needs or emotionally disturbed child. As a teacher, learn to focus on basic asanas, breathing and heart rate. To use an old-fashioned term, this is about biofeedback. The goal as a student is becoming self-aware--aware of one's own internalized biological mechanisms. As a teacher, your aim is for students eventually to learn to modulate and control the emotional states that the biological mechanisms signal. At the same time, the teacher needs to be aware of each student's individual limitations. Read on to learn how to teach yoga to a special needs child.
Do Yoga Exercises for Shoulders
The shoulders are an area of the body that can become tight and sore. The following yoga movements can help to stretch this area and reduce muscular tension. Combining deep diaphragmatic yoga breathing along with these movements will help the body relax and be more receptive to the yoga stretches. The stretches in section one and two can be done in a chair, or at the office when working on a computer for extended periods.
Stretch With a Yoga Ball
Stretching comes naturally to us. After a long car ride or airplane flight, we all want to stretch our legs. But creating a focus time for stretching can improve your overall health. Stretching increases circulation, reduces tension and reduces the chance of injury. A yoga ball is ideal for a variety of stretches.
Stretch the Spine in Hatha Yoga
Hatha yoga teaches many postures that can help to stretch your spine. A common statement in yoga is that “You are as young as your spine is flexible.” Keeping your back muscles flexible will help you to prevent and manage chronic back pain. Below are a few of the more common spine stretches taught in Hatha yoga. If possible do these stretches on a hard surface such as a floor. Stretching while lying on a bed does not provide the same support to your back. Read on to learn how to stretch the spine in hatha yoga.
Paint Your Yoga Mat
Many yoga mats are sold with artistic designs printed on them in various styles. However, it is not uncommon for an avid practitioner of yoga to want to paint her own mat to personalize it. While no paint can withstand the constant wear that a yoga mat endures, acrylic craft paint will last for a substantial amount of time. To prevent a layer of paint chipping off every time you use your yoga mat, purchase a mat in the base color you desire so that you must only paint on the details. With 15 minutes of spare time, you can paint and customize your yoga mat.