Easy Somatic Exercises for Kids and Adults to Try Together

Imagine you just picked up your kid from school, and they’re feeling super grumpy. There is no need for a tablet or phone! Something called somatic exercises can help both you and your children chill out. These activities help your kid connect with their body to find their happy place again. Check out how doing exercises together can make everything better.

A Journey Into Mindful Movement

Somatic exercises, including yoga, are about being mindful of your moves, feelings, and breath. While yoga is a popular somatic exercise, there are a bunch of mind-body workouts you can try. They help you notice how your body moves and, more importantly, how it makes you feel. For kids, this is super important because slowing down and tuning into their bodies helps them handle emotions. And guess what? Adults can benefit, too! Doing intentional body movements in somatic exercises can shift your vibe from stressed to calm.

Doing somatic exercises, like yoga, helps kids connect with their bodies, making them strong, bendy, and balanced. It’s not just about the physical stuff – yoga also boosts self-esteem, calms the mind, and teaches cool tricks for handling big feelings. Even doctors say it’s awesome! So, let’s get moving, express those feelings, and have a blast together!

Body Scans and Conscious Breathing

Body scans are a great way to tune into the body. Lie or sit comfortably, close your eyes, and explore how your body is feeling. Start from the toes and scan up to the top of the head, paying attention to how different parts feel without labeling anything as good or bad. It’s like giving the body a little check-up when we’re feeling a bit overwhelmed.

If feeling a bit stressed, conscious breathing is a good option. Slow it down and place a stuffed animal on the belly. Rock it to sleep with the breath. Another option is to imagine blowing out candles on a birthday cake by gently breathing in through the nose and releasing a stronger breath out through the mouth.

Yoga and Outdoor Play

Another great activity is to get moving with yoga. Try reaching for the sky, bending at the hips, and touching the ground. Feel the whole body in this stress-busting pose. And if you just want to chill, lay down and close your eyes for the relaxing Savasana pose.

Guess what? Playing outside is like a somatic exercise, too. Kids can run, climb, laugh, and their imaginations go wild. Nature is our playground, and spending time in nature is the best way to release some stress.

A Game of Opposites Attract

A fun game to play to calm down is to move the body in opposite ways. Try slow-motion arms or pretend to be as small as a mouse and as big as a house. It gets kids thinking and helps release pent-up energy.

Before trying somatic exercises, be mindful if your child has gone through tough times or has injuries. Talk to a somatic therapist or doctor to make sure it’s right for them. Their health is super important, so always check with a specialist if you need help helping them process their feelings or body issues.