Moving our bodies with simple exercises can help develop focus, coordination and balance. These practices can help kids develop a stranger connection to their body through guided movement. Try these mindful movement exercises with your kid!
Standing Balance Activity
Stand with both feet firmly on the floor. Make really tight fists with your hands, hold for a bit then release your fingers. Fists tight again, then release. Notice how your fingers feel. It’s important to notice when your muscles are tight or relaxed.
Now clasp your hands together in front of you. Keeping your arms straight out in front of you, slowly twist to the right, looking at your hands as you do so. Now twist to your left, still looking at those hands. Keep your back nice and straight. Repeat several times. Now come back to center and let your arms rest.
Next bend as if you are going to sit in a chair, only going as far down as you can comfortably. Now lift your arms up and breathe in, exhale & lower your arms. Now stand back up tall and straight, and notice how your body feels.
Re-Set Activity
Start with a deep breath, then stand with your feet shoulder-width apart. Lift your arms out to the sides and then take a deep breath in while lifting your arms up slowly over your head. Exhale and bring your arms back down. Relax your arms and your knees as you exhale.
Next, stand in tree pose. Stand firmly on both feet, put your hands on your hips and shift your weight on to your right leg. Imagine it is growing roots into the ground as it gets stronger. Now lift your left foot up to rest on your right ankle, with your left knee pointing out. You can lift your foot up to your calf if you want. Stand strong like a tree, and when you feel ready, bring your arms up like branches. Breathe in & out slowly. Relax your left foot and stand back on both feet. Now switch sides. If you lose your balance, simply begin again.
Now, place both feet back on the ground and roll your shoulders by bringing them up towards your ears, back and down, then forward. After a few rolls, switch directions. Relax and notice how you feel.
