One of the amazing qualities of yoga is that it feels good!  Each pose helps us feel better in a specific part of our body.  Certain poses, also known as asanas, build strength, while others stretch muscles.  What is your favorite pose?  Why?

With each new year, I often formulate resolutions that I identify as good intentions.  I begin by pondering the changes I can make to bring greater quality into my life.  This process helps me get in touch with my true feelings and focus my energy into that which I wish to create.

In the month of January, I am using a new activity to support my yoga students in their self-awareness and power of creation.  I add a simple breathing exercise before beginning the postures portion of the class.  First, I ask the child to lie on his back and place his hands on his stomach.  I then ask the child to think of what he would like to feel more of in his life.  I define this by giving examples of feelings (happy, peaceful, loving, thankful, etc.)  I have found that many children choose happiness and yet others have shared their desire to be more friendly so that they can have more friendships, healthy in order to feel good and have plenty of energy, and one child wished to feel fun.  It is amazing what children can teach us, I have decided my intention for 2010 is to feel fun!

What a blessing to help children learn this process and support their self-discovery.  It is a joy to see a child touch into their feelings and select what they would like to add or increase in their life.

Please let me know how this activity works with your child, student or yourself.