Written by A Wild Dove | Photographed by Ciara Brinn Perrone
Countless studies have shown that practicing yoga not only benefits adults, but children too. From decreasing anxiety to promoting a state of calm and happiness, the positive outcomes of a regular yoga practice extend from the mini-set all the way to the elderly. Since we’re all about wellness for both mamas and kids, we knew we needed to dedicate one of our signature learning workshops to the practice of yoga, and who better to lead it than Eda Ozman, teacher of Power Cubs kids yoga at Lyons Den, our favorite spot for some downward dogging into the mind, body and spirit.
““I believe that kids who are exposed to yoga and mindfulness are building a strong foundation for a healthy and happy life,” said Eda. “They are learning essential skills at a young age such as respect, compassion, the ability to regulate emotions and building a connection to self and others.””
So on a recent Sunday we decamped to the Outdoor Voices boutique on the Upper East Side for a fun kiddo yoga sesh. It was the perfect setting, as not only does OV promote #doingthings at all ages, but it’s all about the magic of movement with friends. As mamas snacked on popcorn and Detox and Energy bars by Sakara and sipped on Dirty Lemon Ginseng and Matcha juices (cuz, it’s Sunday morning), Eda began the yoga practice. She started with a group Om before leading the children into a Sun Dance. They also practiced breathing exercises, and she showed them eagle, tree, airplane and group flower poses, as well as Warrior 1, 2 and 3. “The kids were very receptive to the tools I taught,” Eda said. “I’ve been teaching kids for two years and every class is so different. I quickly learned that while it is good to have a structured lesson plan, you may have to shift and change the class based on the energy of the group. This keeps me on my toes and really trains me to be present.”
The kids also worked on their partner poses and engaged in a group stretching circle as they held hands and moved back and forth. Eda then blew bubbles while the kids watched in an effort to teach them patience and observation. Then, of course, they blew their own to work on breath. Eda ended in Savasana with short explanation of the meaning of “Namaste” as the children said the word to each other. “The kids teach me a lot about myself and how to be more patient,” Eda said. “When they don't listen, instead of getting worked up, I am able to notice my emotions and not react right away. Kids are like a sponge in that they are in touch and aware of everything happening around them. As a kids yoga teacher, it's crucial to remember this and lead by example to create a safe space where kids feel accepted and understood.”
