Yoga Practice for Adolescent Stress Relief
Let's Talk Yoga for Teens: When to Get Flexible and Calm
Who says yoga is just for the grown-ups? This stress-busting practice can be a game-changer for teens, helping them manage anxiety and find balance in their hectic lives. So, when's the best time for your teen to strike a pose?
Well, anytime is a great time, but here are a few spesh moments:
During study sessions
Between cramming for finals or navigating complex algebra problems, student life can be a pressure cooker. Take a few minutes to unwind with some neck rolls, hand stretches, and a relaxing spine straightener. And don't forget the Tree Pose for sharper focus and concentration.
Before lights-out
After a long day of juggling schoolwork, extracurriculars, and social drama, it's essential to unwind and let go of the day's stress. Enter the Child's Pose. This deep-breathing, calming pose can help your teen's body and mind ready for a peaceful slumber.
When feeling zoomie
In the heat of the moment, it's easy for frustration and agitation to rise. In these situations, try a few yoga poses to help your teen chill out and regain a sense of calm. Yoga can help lower irritation levels and put things into perspective—from a calmer, more rational mind-frame.
When under the gun
From academics to sports to extracurricular activities, teenagers face constant pressure to perform. Help them ease that tension and improve their focus by encouraging them to try some proven stress-reducing yoga poses. With a calm nervous system, your teen will be better equipped to unleash their full potential.
When tummy troubles hit
From bellyaches to butterflies, teenagers often grapple with digestive issues. Thanks to poses like the Child's Pose, which stretches abdominal muscles and relieves tension from the gut, they can find some much-needed relief.
But when does yoga for teenage anxiety become a must? Check out these additional instances:
- When your teen is feeling drained
- Frequent headaches have become the norm
- Struggling to catch those Zzz's
- Anger seems to be a daily occurrence
- Appetite has taken a nosedive
Yoga Poses for Teen Anxiety: The Top 5 to Try
- Child's Pose (Balasana)
- Kneel on the mat with palms flat on the ground, hands spread out, and forehead resting on the mat.
- Relax your torso between your thighs, take 5-10 deep breaths, and hold the pose.
- Seated Forward Bend Pose
- Sit tall with legs extended, inhale, and lift arms upwards.
- Exhale, bend hips, and extend forward while resting hands on body, taking 5-10 deep breaths.
- Hero Pose (Virasana)
- Kneel on the mat with knees together and feet slightly wider than hips.
- Sit back between feet with palms on thighs, straightening back, and taking 5-10 deep breaths.
- Tree Pose (Vrksasana)
- Stand tall, place the palm of one foot on the inner thigh of the other leg.
- Raise arms, join palms, and take 5-10 deep breaths before switching legs.
- Standing Forward Bend Pose
- Stand with feet hip-distance apart, inhale, and place hands on hips.
- Exhale, bend at hips to fold forward, trying to touch toes (if possible), and repeat for at least 5-10 breaths.
Pro Tip: If your teen's mind starts wandering during practice, encourage them to simply pause and bring their focus back to the pose at hand. By connecting their muscles and mind and focusing on deep breaths, they'll perform the poses more effectively and reap the full relaxation benefits.
Wrap-Up
By incorporating yoga into their daily lives, teenagers can embrace the present moment, connect with their inner selves, and reduce anxiety. Regular practice can help your teen stay grounded, keep energy levels high, and foster a positive outlook on life.
For more fantastic information on yoga and mental health, be sure to check out our blog section. And, if you're a new teacher or parent interested in learning more about yoga for kids and teens, don't miss out on our FREE podcast with Kids Yoga expert Marzia, chock-full of expert tips! Namaste.
- The Child's Pose can be particularly beneficial for teenagers during stressful periods like study sessions, as it promotes relaxation and aids in sharpening focus and concentration.
- Engaging in yoga, especially the Child's Pose, is also recommended for improving mental health, acting as a calming measure before bedtime to help prepare teenagers' bodies and minds for a peaceful sleep.
