Traditional yoga focuses mainly on the lifestyle and spiritual self-realisation side of yoga. In a childrens yoga session we can explore the eight limbs of yoga, to teach us how to live a yoga life perhaps in the more traditional way with ourselves and others. These ethical and spiritual observances help us develop the more profound qualities of our humanity.

The eight limbs are like a set of guidelines for living well, purposefully and meaningfully. The limbs can be used in your own classes so children can learn the teachings of yoga.  At the beginning of a lesson you can discuss the Yamas and niyamas and continue to refer to them in classes.

Yamas 

There are 5 Yamas covering moral behaviour towards others.

• Ahimsa (non violence)

No harm to each other within the class (especially useful in partner work).

• Satya (Truthfulness)

We should always tell the truth and never lie.

• Asteya (non stealing/non envy)

The mat being a space each for them to use and they should not steal each other’s mats or other equipment. But also to not be jealous of each other’s possessions so for example ask everyone to switch positions.

• Brahmacharya (self control)

Controlling our energy and using it wisely for example having enough energy to complete the class.

• Aparigraha (non greed)

Appreciating what we have and thankfulness. Have they thanked their parents for sending them or their teacher for organising the session?

Niyamas 

Again there are 5 Niyamas, these concern moral behaviour but towards the self.

• Saucha (cleanliness of body and mind)

Using positive thoughts and affirmations in class, explaining the importance of exercise and healthy eating and the positive effects of yoga on the body.

• Santosha (contentment)

Appreciating what we have, enjoying the yoga practice.

• Tapas (effort, perseverance and consistency)

‘if at first you don’t succeed, try try again’ the yoga poses need practice to perfect and the perfection is the reward.

• Svadhyaya (self awareness)

Listening to our bodies and minds. Recognising when we can do more and when we are pushing too hard.

• Ishvara (the greater good)

Listening to others and thinking of their feelings, accepting others opinions. Another useful one for partner work.

Asana

The practice of poses. This can also be looking at ways they can practice these at home.

Pranayama 

The practice of breathing. Included in every class. Again, can also look at ways to incorporate the breathing techniques into every day life. Also focussing the way different breaths make them feel.

Pratyahara

Withdrawal of the senses, separating the outside world from the inner self to avoid distractions.

Dharana

Concentrating on one thing completely. Whilst practicing a pose, ask the children to focus solely on how their muscles feel, or how strong they feel or what their body is doing and don’t let their mind wander.

Dhyana

Meditation. Stillness inside and out. Practiced at the end of sessions, especially for older children. This is a step on from Dharana and linking it with Pratyahara when you are unaware of the distractions.

Samadhi

Bliss. Again this is building on, so the next step from Dhyana. Also called Enlightenment.

These last Limbs are difficult concepts for children to understand, but the general idea of focusing on one thing and not becoming distracted can be practiced and referred to.