Expert Tips from Himalayan Siddhaa Akshar
In our fast-paced, distraction-filled world, it has become increasingly important to cultivate focus in children. As parents, educators, and caretakers, we aim to equip them with the tools they need to thrive academically and emotionally. Among the numerous techniques at our disposal, one enduring practice has emerged as particularly impactful on both mind and body: yoga. More than a mere physical workout, yoga presents a comprehensive approach that can significantly boost a child’s concentration, leading to better academic achievement and heightened emotional well-being. By integrating yoga practices into their lives, we can help our children face modern challenges with clarity, resilience, and unwavering focus.
Himalayan Siddhaa Akshar, a yoga and spiritual leader and founder of Akshar Yoga Institutions, asserts that “introducing early yoga training for kids is a wonderful approach to instil in them the values of breathing and stretching.” He notes that with poses named after animals and nature, like Tree Pose and Cat-Cow, yoga keeps children engaged and entertained. “Yoga is a fantastic way to increase focus, reduce stress, and unwind,” he says, emphasizing the importance of fostering concentration from an early age.
Akshar adds that specific exercises and asanas, such as Surya Namaskar, Bakasana, and Bal Bakasana, can help children focus more effectively. “These yogic exercises adjust their energy fields and operate on their internal systems,” he explains. Yoga encourages dexterity by teaching children about balance and coordination. As they strive to maintain particular asanas, they develop mental and physical composure. “They gain focus and attention by doing this, which gives them a feeling of success,” he concludes.
Top Yoga Poses for Kids to Enhance Concentration
Himalayan Siddhaa Akshar shared with HT Lifestyle a selection of yoga asanas specifically designed to develop concentration and focus in children.
Bakasana – Crow Pose Begin by leaning forward and placing your palms flat on the ground in front of your feet, slightly apart. Your fingers should point forward and be spread wide. Lean forward until your arms support your body weight. Find your balance and slowly lift both feet off the ground. Slightly bend your elbows and place your knees below your armpits. Keep your feet together, maintain your arms as straight as possible, focus on one point, and hold this pose for a while.
Bal Bakasana – Baby Crow Pose Start in Marjariasana, placing your elbows flat. Spread your fingers apart and point them forward as you lean forward until your triceps support your body weight. Once balanced, gently raise both feet, keeping them together.
Sirshasana – Headstand Pose Begin in Vajrasana. Interlock your palms and elbows to form an imaginary equilateral triangle, with your elbows flat on the floor. Place your palms in front of the crown of your head, which should be on the ground, and support the back of your head with your palms. Then, walk your toes towards your head until your back is straight. Lift your right leg up and position it in front of your upper torso first. Use your core strength to balance and bring your left leg up, joining your legs and pointing your toes downward. Stay in this posture for as long as you’re comfortable.
Meditation Technique: Sthiti Dhyan • Sit in Sukhasana. • Look straight for about 4-5 seconds, then behind you and on either side for the same duration. • Close your eyes. • Recall what you observed.
Discussing how yoga enhances focus in children, Himalayan Siddhaa Akshar states, “Children who practice yoga have greater self-esteem and confidence. Yoga encourages goal-setting and consistency. They develop discipline through regular practice, and as they accomplish asanas, it reinforces the qualities of persistence and hard work. Yoga teaches children the importance of the mind-body connection, as the poses challenge the body while calming the mind. Introducing group yoga classes in settings such as schools or communities should be encouraged from an early age so that children can reap both academic and overall benefits by developing positive life skills.”
