Balasana (Child’s Pose)
Balasana, or Child’s Pose, is a gentle yoga posture that offers numerous benefits for children’s physical and mental well-being. It calms the nervous system, reduces stress and anxiety, and provides a safe space for introspection and mindfulness. Physically, it stretches the spine, hips, thighs, knees, and ankles, while also relaxing the shoulders and neck.
- Safe resting pose between more active asanas
- Helps with emotional regulation and stress relief
- Gentle stretch for hips and back. It relaxes the spine, shoulders, and neck, relieving tension.
- pose encourages deep, slow breathing, which can help calm the nervous system and improve lung capacity.
- help reduce stress and anxiety, making it a good option for children who may be feeling overwhelmed or overstimulated.
- calming effect of the pose can also help children who have trouble falling asleep.
- help children manage stress, anxiety, and racing thoughts.
- mimics the fetal position, which can be naturally comforting and grounding for children.
- Children should avoid pressing their necks into the mat and instead rest their forehead gently on the mat or a cushion.
- listen to your body and come out of the pose if you feel any discomfort.
Instructions:
- Sit on your knees with your feet together and buttocks resting on your heels. Separate
your knees about the width of your hips. Place your hands on your thighs, palms
down. (This is the vajra-asana or Thunderbolt Pose). - Inhale deeply, then exhale as you bring your chest between your knees while swinging
your arms forward. - Rest your forehead on the floor, if possible, and then bring your arms around to your
sides until the hands on resting on either side of your feet, palms up. - Breath gently through your nostrils as you hold the posture. Hold for about one to two
minutes. Then return to an upright kneeling position with your back straight and your
hands on your thighs. - Repeat the posture at least one more time.
- The bala-asana can be held for as long as is comfortable. Repeat at least twice if it is held for less than a minute.
The views expressed in this article should not be considered as a substitute for a physician’s advice. Always make sure to seek a doctor or a professional’s advice before proceeding with anything suggested in this article.