Principal Sponsor, Little Yogis Academy: How Yoga & Mindfulness Practices can Combat the Current Mental Health Crisis

On October 10, 2022 we celebrated World Mental Health Day. Though this only happens once a year, we are reminded that our work is never done when it comes to supporting our student’s mental health and wellbeing.

Approximately 1.2 million children and youth have been diagnosed with a mental illness in Canada, and currently there is no curriculum that exists in schools to combat everyday stressors.⁠ ⁠There is no easy solution when it comes to supporting our student’s mental health, however, there have been numerous studies about the benefits of yoga & mindfulness on a child’s wellbeing, both physically and mentally.

A growing body of research has already shown that yoga can improve focus, self-esteem, academic performance, and classroom behaviour, and can even reduce anxiety and stress in children [Harvard U]⁠ ⁠

When it comes to mindfulness practices, meditation can be a useful tool for decreasing anxiety and promoting happiness. Habits formed early in life will inform behaviours in adulthood, and with mindfulness, we can give our children the habit of being peaceful, kind and accepting. [nytimes.com]⁠ ⁠

Promoting the healthy development of all students, as well as enabling all students to reach their full potential, is a priority for educators across Ontario. Students’ health and wellbeing contribute to their ability to learn in all disciplines, including health and physical education, and that learning in turn contributes to their overall well-being. A well-rounded educational experience prioritizes social-emotional learning, physical and mental health, and inclusion together with academic success for all students. Parents, community partners, and educators all have critical roles in achieving this. The health and physical education curriculum engages students in learning about the factors that contribute to health and well-being and in building skills to live healthy, active lives.

Little Yogis creates programs that are unique and specially designed to contribute to the well-being of children between the ages 2-17. Depending on the age group, the duration of the program fluctuates between 20 minutes – 1 hour and incorporates themes and areas of focus that are meaningful and geared towards the specific age group.

Little Yogis also provides support workshops and programs for school administrators, teachers, parents, and all others in the school community. This helps to ensure the mental and physical well-being of everyone in the school community. The instructors at Little Yogis are trained to work with all age groups and levels to provide a positive learning experience for everyone.

Consistency in terms of mental and physical well-being across all members of the school community can contribute to creating a collective that is well-equipped with strategies to help deal with stress, anxiety, and confrontation, while helping to build confidence, communication, and a positive growth mindset for all members of the school community.

Invest in your students mental health this year and invite us to your school:

📩 info@littleyogisacademy.com | www.littleyogisacademy.com | www.littleyogisacademy.com/programs