Grounded Yoga is a yoga program for kids and teens created by Cheryl Crawford and Amy Haysman, two educators and yoga teachers. Debi is now offering Grounded Yoga classes for preschoolers, teens and tweens, and families. She is working with a group of dedicated teachers to offer classes for all ages. Check out the full schedule and sign up for classes at the Be Yoga Family Mind Body Site.
By empowering kids and teens with the positive aspects of yoga (mind-body awareness, searching for the good in all things, moving with their breath, etc.) we aim to heighten or elevate their sense of who they are so they can become more stable and confident - physically, mentally, and emotionally. That's what we call being "grounded". Our specialty and passion is teaching yoga to kids and teens.The Grounded program is a methodology used to enable and certify students of all ages, including teens and adults, to not only learn yoga but to teach yoga as well.
Grounded is a program that inspires each individual to ground themselves in order to elevate their life and the lives of others. The Grounded Yoga program is centered around a series of specific yoga poses rich and detailed in technique yet presented in a wholesome, light and humorous manner so that even the most hesitant will become grounded and embrace the elevating aspects of yoga. We balance the seriousness with playfulness and include games, songs and guided visualizations in our classes. Our poses serve and honor the individual by providing specific tools for calming down or increasing energy, lightening up or centering through focus & balance as well as the wisdom to know when each is appropriate.
Children derive enormous benefits from yoga. Being introduced to yoga at an early age gives them a head start to lifelong health and happiness. Yoga is especially transformative for those children who have little physical activity in a typical day. Yoga strengthens all parts of the body and helps one become more flexible and coordinated. Our poses are fun to do and generate such an overall sense of well being that the kids begin practicing at home what they learn during class. The kids have a great time while they work hard and condition their bodies.
Grounded yoga also enhances self-awareness. Children who practice yoga learn early on to tune into their bodies. Self esteem is bolstered as the children gain control over their bodies and minds. Yoga isn't about winning or losing or comparing oneself to others. It is about bringing unity to one's own life. Children can work together to help each other reach this goal. Another benefit of yoga is self-discipline. As part of the practice of yoga, kids slow down, hold certain postures, breathe in a certain way and think creatively. Yoga encourages children to master themselves rather than wait for an adult to control them. That is the essence of being grounded.
Through practicing yoga, children learn ways to relax and manage stress in their lives. A child worried about a test, for instance, may use one of the many grounded breathing techniques to calm down or a brain balancing pose to recall information and focus. Being able to manage energy also helps kids sleep better and lead a more harmonious life. When children learn techniques for self-health, relaxation, and inner fulfillment, they can navigate life's challenges with a little more ease.
One of the avenues that the students can accomplish so much is through our signature Quest for Elevation Program. Much like earning belts in martial arts, the students earn pennants through specific achievements. The pennant colors and level requirements correlate with the cakra system. Each pennant can be used as a peace flag or worn as a bandana. It usually takes between 6 to 9 weeks to earn each pennant.
By the time a student earns the final white pennant, he or she has earned the credentials to be named Certified Grounded and will receive a certificate and a badge. A Certified Grounded student has what it takes to live his or her best life and also the ability to share that gift with others. The Quest for Elevation is a celebration rather than a goal that they must achieve within a certain time frame. It is non competitive and no stress. Anyone enrolled in a Grounded Yoga class or club has the option of joining this program.
In Grounded, we share experiences and fulfill the universal desire to be connected and belong to a group. Our expectations are high; we work hard, laugh whole-heartedly and build self-esteem and confidence in a safe, non-competitive space. When we are grounded, we have the stability and strength that it takes to handle any situation with grace, a positive attitude, and flexibility. That's elevation!