If your child has shown interest in yoga or if you’re looking to introduce them to the practice, it’s great to start with some basic poses. The Triangle Pose, known as Trikonasana in Sanskrit, is a classic pose that’s both fun and beneficial. Here’s a simple way to explain and guide your child into the pose, along with some variations to try out.
Explaining Triangle Pose to Your Kid
Imagine being a mountain, strong and tall. Now, imagine one side of the mountain sloping down to form a triangle shape. That’s what we want our body to look like in the Triangle Pose!
Step-by-Step Guide:
- Stand tall with your feet apart, about as wide as your arms when you stretch them out to the sides.
- Turn your right foot so it’s pointing straight ahead, and your left foot slightly in.
- Stretch your arms out wide, like an airplane.
- Now, tilt your body to the right, trying to touch your right foot with your right hand. Don’t worry if you can’t touch your foot; just go as far as you can!
- Look up to the sky, reaching your left arm up. Feel the stretch along your left side.
- Hold for a few breaths, then come back up and try the other side.
Variations of Triangle Pose
Once your child gets the hang of the basic Triangle Pose, you can introduce some variations to keep it interesting and challenging:
1. Revolved Triangle Pose (Parivrtta Trikonasana)
This is like the regular Triangle Pose but with a twist!
- Start in the basic Triangle Pose position.
- As you tilt to the right, instead of reaching down with your right hand, try to touch your right foot with your left hand.
- Reach your right arm up to the sky and look upwards.
- Remember to do both sides!
2. Extended Triangle Pose (Utthita Trikonasana)
This variation stretches the side of the body even more.
- Follow the basic Triangle Pose steps, but instead of touching the foot, place your hand on your shin or a yoga block, if you have one.
- Stretch the other arm straight up, forming a straight line with the other arm.
3. Bounded Triangle Pose (Baddha Trikonasana)
A slightly advanced variation for older kids or those with more flexibility.
- Begin in the Triangle Pose position.
- As you tilt to the right, wrap your left arm behind your back.
- Try to grab your right inner thigh with your left hand.
- Look upwards, opening your chest.
In conclusion, Triangle Pose is a wonderful way to introduce your child to the joys of yoga. It’s fun, easy to understand, and has numerous variations to keep the practice engaging. Remember to always encourage your child and remind them that it’s not about perfection but the journey and the fun of trying out new poses. Happy practicing!