The Power of Guided Relaxation at Family Focused Yoga
At Family Focused Yoga, we make a meaningful transition to relaxation at the end of every class, creating a space for calm, connection, and inner peace. Each age group experiences this restful time in a way that’s engaging and developmentally supportive, giving children and caregivers the tools they need to wind down together. Here’s a peek into what our guided relaxation looks like for each age group, and why we include it in our sessions.
Peaceful Play Toddler Yoga
In our Peaceful Play Toddler class, guided relaxation is a gentle, comforting transition that lasts about 3-5 minutes. Parents and caregivers are encouraged to provide sensory touch, like gentle hand strokes or a calming back rub, allowing toddlers to feel safe and connected while signaling that class is coming to a close. Soft music plays, and a color-changing bear adds a soothing visual element, helping little ones focus on something calm and rhythmic. This practice not only helps toddlers relax but also builds a foundation for self-regulation and focus that will serve them throughout their lives.
Kinderflow Family Yoga
For our Kinderflow Family Yoga, we extend guided relaxation with a short story that aligns with the day’s theme and focuses on relaxation. During this time, children are invited to choose a "breathing buddy" – a stuffed animal that they place on their belly as they lie down. By observing the gentle rise and fall of their breathing buddy, kids naturally begin to focus on their breath, allowing them to settle in and embrace a moment of stillness. A cozy blanket option adds to the comfort, making relaxation something they look forward to at every class.
Tween & Teen Yoga
With our older kids and teens, we keep the spirit of relaxation alive while transitioning to age-appropriate mindfulness practices. While we skip the breathing buddies at this stage, our tween and teen participants still engage in quiet moments of reflection and guided breathwork, mirroring the type of meditation adults practice. Through this introduction to mindfulness, they learn to quiet their minds, reduce stress, and cultivate emotional balance in a way that’s accessible and enjoyable.
Why We Offer Guided Relaxation
Guided relaxation is not just a way to end a class – it’s an integral part of each child’s journey toward self-regulation and mindfulness. Our guided relaxation, like Savasana, is a time to fully integrate the physical, mental, and emotional benefits of yoga practice By creating these peaceful moments, we offer children and families a way to connect, unwind, and develop a strong foundation for handling stress and managing big emotions.
Curious to experience the magic of guided relaxation? Join us for a class and see how this practice can benefit you and your family!
