The ancient science of yoga incorporates numerous therapeutic and healing modalities for children with special needs. Breathing techniques, physical movement, relaxation skills and creative visualization have been scientifically proven to be effective in helping children of all ages and abilities to build physical strength and flexibility, as well as achieve an overall sense of calm and relaxation, whether they have ADD, ADHD, Down’s syndrome, autism or Asperger’s.

Yoga is an extraordinary system of well being that has many therapeutic physical, emotional and mental benefits for children with special needs including:

    
• improved functioning of all body systems;
    
• increased focus, concentration and attention span;
    
• increased strength, endurance and flexibility;
    
• reduced stress level and peace of mind;
    
• more relaxed, proper sleep;
    
• increased self-esteem and confidence;
    
• developed sense of self-awareness and self-control;
    
• enhanced creative abilities and problem-solving skills and
    
• a sense of joy within oneself and in the world.

Yoga’s many benefits apply to everyone. It can be done anywhere.

All children can learn the movements because it works with the natural experiences of the body. It doesn’t force change. It allows for the changes to take place slowly and gradually. It heals and it soothes. It creates a sense of accomplishment — and it feels good.

Breathing Techniques

Breathing techniques increase body awareness, develop physical and psychological control and calm the body and mind. They’re easy to do when certain tools or physical prompts are utilized. For example, a small toy can be placed on the child’s belly. As the child breathes in, she watches the toy go up as her belly expands. As she exhales, the belly deflates and the toy on the belly goes down. We often refer to this as “belly breathing.” In this way, breath control becomes a task all children can master with enjoyment and success. This helps children with special needs to learn how to self-calm and relax.

Jeannine Smolinsky, M.Ed., E-RYT is a certified yoga instructor and exp-erienced and registered yoga trainer who offers trainings to parents, teachers and therapists. She’s the founder and director of Yoga Rocks™ in Oyster Bay. For more info, visit www.yogarockskids.com or call 516-624-YOGA.