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 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.

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 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.

Winter has drawn to a close, and people are thinking of ways to brighten their homes. There are a few pro tips anyone can take advantage of that have to do with brightening any appearance with a few choice houseplants! See what plant would fit best in different areas of your home and enhance the overall appearance! Get out of the winter greys and dull mood by choosing colorful and fun options to brighten the rooms that seem too gloomy!

During those months when you know winter is at its end and spring is starting to bloom, you probably want your living room to go along with that fresh spring vibe. One of the best ways you can do that is to get some snake houseplants to liven up the atmosphere!

The best feature of the African violets is that they can thrive on artificial lighting and love moisture and humidity. They are the most beautiful plants you can choose for your bathroom or living room to add color throughout the space! And if you want those blossoms perky and bright, water them from the bottom, keep them in water for 30 minutes, and drain the excess!

Almost any flower could look good on a windowsill and bring the entire space vivid beauty, but there are certain plants that most people would enjoy more than others. Try putting in place some flowering clivia. Those otherwise simple windowsills of your home will quickly liven up with color and beauty!

If you’re going for a beautiful focal point for your dining table, you can take advantage of the spiky green foliage and brightly-colored blooms of the potted bromeliad houseplants! If you want a more rustic style to blend with the modern interior of your living room, you can also put them on a wooden tray or platter!

For those of you who want to create the illusion of movement and visual interest, you can always use the beauty of Calceolaria flowers to your advantage. Choose some cool-toned pots to counteract the bright colors of the flowers, and try putting them on different heights. You can perfectly complement the lively colors of the flowers if you put them in blue and green pots!

Using gorgeous houseplants can take you out of those winter blues and bring your home right into the beauty and colorful feel of the upcoming spring season! Educate yourself on what flowers and plants you can use for different areas, and wow anyone who steps inside with a gorgeous, fresh atmosphere!