Introduction to Sensory Yoga & its benefits
In today’s fast-paced, often overstimulating world, many families are seeking gentle, holistic ways to support their children’s well-being. For neurodivergent children or those with sensory processing challenges, sensory yoga offers a meaningful pathway to connection, regulation, and resilience.
Rooted in traditional yoga principles but tailored to individual needs, sensory yoga is increasingly recognized as a therapeutic tool. In recent years, yoga has emerged as a powerful, accessible practice for children with diverse needs—offering a unique blend of physical activity, emotional regulation, and sensory integration.
One of the foundational resources in this space is Sensory Yoga for Kids: Therapeutic Movement for Children of All Abilities by Britt Collins, an experienced pediatric occupational therapist, she offers a variety of adaptable yoga sequences designed specifically for children with autism, ADHD, and other developmental conditions.
The routines are structured to meet children where they are, using play-based engagement and sensory input to create a supportive and enjoyable experience. Yoga sessions can be tailored to different energy levels and behavioral needs.
Another key resource is yoga programs like Special Yoga which have made it their mission to bring the healing benefits of yoga to children with additional needs. Grounded in compassion and neurodiversity-affirming practices, this approach is centered on the idea that every child, regardless of diagnosis or ability, has the capacity to connect deeply to themselves and the world around them through mindful movement and breath.
By learning to listen to their bodies and respond to overwhelming stimuli with calming techniques, the benefits extend beyond the physical. It encourages children to become more aware of their bodies, emotions, and environments—helping them respond rather than react to sensory stimuli.
For those seeking empowering strategies to support their child’s health and development, yoga is a nurturing and effective option. Whether you’re new to yoga or looking to expand your toolkit, these spaces offers a thoughtful and inclusive starting point for your journey.
