Playful ways to get kids moving

Like many kids, I also recently returned to school, and I am feeling the toll of all that sitting. If you don't have the time for a full stretching session or a long break to exercise, simple 1-2 minute breaks peppered into the day can counteract sitting and provide a much needed mental break. This week I am sharing a wonderful yoga pose that's not only good for you, but a playful way to get kids moving! Of course, this one is challenging to do in the classroom with a bunch of kids, but it's a great addition to PE, recess, or after-school care.... and parents can do it with their kids at the end of the school day.

I love hearing from you! So please do not hesitate to share stories and/or images of how this tip works out for you and your kids!

Love, Lisa Roberts xoxo

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Did you know that the Dolphin pose is an upper-body strengthener, as well as a forward bend, inversion, and balance challenge all in one! For kids (and adults!), this means a stronger upper body as well as oodles of benefits:

• Forward bends: stretch the backside of the body (calves, hamstrings, hips, lower back, mid-back, upper back, and shoulders); Compress the front side of the body to massage internal organs gently; Quiet and calm the mind by directing one's attention inward.

• Inversions: strengthen upper back muscles, tone and stabilize the core, and develop balance; quiet and calm chatty minds, and subtly cue one to take a different or alternate perspective.

• Balance: target core stability, balance, coordination, and the development of mental focus.

Resource: Teach Your Child Yoga (Sterling, 2019) by Lisa Roberts

https://youtu.be/caZ_EZspixA?feature=shared