As the holidays roll in, consider including yoga as part of your roster of holiday family activities. The stress can be a lot, not only for the adults but also for the kids. It is even more of a concern as we enter the third (almost) year of the pandemic.
These Christmas yoga poses for kids make a fun routine that you and your children can do together, and help deal with the stress. Have fun!
1. Snowball Pose
Come down onto your knees, and rest your belly onto your thighs. Curl up into a soft ball and relax your head down onto your mat. Focus on your breath, let go of any tension, and encourage your child to feel comfortable in this shape.
2. Candy Cane Pose
Stand tall and reach your arms up! Hold your right arm with your left hand, and take a side bend to the left side. Then, repeat on the other side!
3. Star Pose
Stand with your legs wider than your hips. Bring your arms to the side and shine bright like a star! You can bring the arms up and down to make your star twinkle!
4. Sleigh Pose
Bring your belly down to the mat. Press your palms down and straighten your arms. Feel your heart open and your chest broaden!
5. Christmas Tree Pose
This looks just like your classic Tree Pose. Bring your right foot onto your left lower leg. Try to balance, and have fun swaying from side to side. Bring your arms up and reach for the sky.
6. Moon Pose
As you stand on your left leg, bend your right knee and catch hold of your right foot. Start to lean forward and reach your left arm forward. Have fun balancing, and it’s okay if you fall. Just go back into it and smile!
7. Fireplace Pose
Sit down and cross your legs over each other. Take your hands in prayer in front of your chest. Feel a warm, orange glow at the center of your heart–like a gentle, flickering flame. Let this warmth fill you with feelings of gratitude for your family. Breathe. Let this be your mindful moment with your little one.
8. Snow Angel Pose
Lie down on your mat, and spread your arms and legs as wide as a snow angel’s. Encourage your child to scan their body and close their eyes. If your child struggles in settling down or relaxing, consider teaching them a few meditation techniques.
Stay here for a few minutes. Feel the body relax and the breath deepen. When you’re ready to end your practice, open your eyes. These Christmas yoga poses for kids will really help bring the joy in movement this holiday season!
First published in Dec 2020; updated Dec 2021
