Those who are already western trained are teaching Yoga as a means of helping students to arrive at spiritual health as well as that of mind and body.

Useful hints are offered by any professional teacher of long standing who has been engaged in adapting the universal principles and classical techniques into practical methods that are readily understood and needed by modern students of all ages.

We are witnessing many fruitful exchanges between cultures today and there is a growing need for spiritual rather than material values.

A natural pride in western wisdom is as acceptable as those of any culture. The  particular reverence held for the Indian origins and Vedic teachings allows that only those teachings that are fully endorsed and understood can be injected with sincerity into a teacher’s tutoring.

But there is no monopoly upon wisdom. Each culture possesses its own. However, the future indicates that beyond differences, human advancement will depend upon our ability to perceive universal truths whatever the source, to embrace them and to act upon them.

There is no exclusive attitude acceptable if Yoga is seen at its finest – as a fundamental universal system upon which we draw for information and inspiration that will help us live as healthy, loving, peaceful human beings.

In order to guide others along a path,  it is only  personal experience that will allow us to feel confident. Students will feel equally so when they have tested the validity of theory through they own experience.

I recommend that we all remain aware that simplicity, honesty and high aspiration are reliable tools in the application of the science and in the art of Yoga teaching, the spirit of which is truly conveyed through the quality of our soul.

I trust that some of the following hints and items of information will be of benefit.

………………………………….

TEACHING YOGA TO CHILDREN

Many parents who practise the physical disciplines of Yoga are able to pass on appropriate health benefits to their children by helping them to understand natural health principles and so encourage their co-operation. Building better health of course begins under direction of the parents but the practical skills and benefits are usually readily experienced, to serve as an encouragement to young ones.

Yoga teachers who have been trained to understand the modifications and cautions that accompany the health practices that were first designed for adult application are able to train and inspire children to take a positive life approach and to insist upon the need for discipline and self discipline, both.

This will often help them later in avoiding the rebelliousness stages, peer pressure and negative temptations associated with drugs, alcohol and premature sexual experimentation.

Self confidence grows as students master their physical skill in the yogic exercises as well as the many Asanas that present a constant and increasing challenge.

All methods used in the application of yogic philosophy are based upon ‘non-violence’ or Ahimsa. This principle is employed in non-violent physical training based upon gentle persuasion. It is practiced in following right standards of behavior respect and courtesy, and in aiming to cultivate constructive interests and actions rather than destructive trends.

In order to achieve the goals and aims you have for your children the wisest course is to seek an interview with the teacher of your choice.  Children love attending small classes and usually have no reluctance associated with their training. Yoga students learn to be cheerful and full of life.

Yoga teachers aspire to help parents to help their children in simple matters of health and physical and mental well being.

……………..

Although I have little time to respond to comments I nevertheless would be happy to reply to any matter relating to teaching if I can offer some assistance.  Please email me at  admin@essencepublishing.net

Sally E. Janssen