Yoga for Baby | Avril Berry

"It is interesting to observe babies move into Yoga postures naturally"

Why I teach Yoga for Baby

Whilst traveling during the late 80's/early 90's in India and throughout SE Asia over a two year period, I observed mothers interacting with their babies – massaging, stretching, twisting and moving their babies. Like a dance, baby would be helped through sequences and held in still postures to create a strong, healthy baby, inside and out.

"The ancient Yogis and Yoginis of Indias would observe and imitate birds, animals, insects and plants of the natural world so that they too could appreciate and benefit from their teachings. Over the years I have observed babies throughout their growth and development and have benefited greatly from their guidance. I would like to share some of my insights . . . "

With regard to body, breath and mind, babies are completely natural Yogis and Yoginis.

BODY - Babies practise physical postures in a step-by-step way to evolve through the challenging stages of growth and development from lying, rolling over, sitting, crawling to standing and walking.

BREATH - Baby’s breathing too, is natural and deep, using the diaphragm with tummy relaxed - uninhibited natural breathing.

MIND - By being completely absorbed in whatever they are doing, babies single-mindedly focus, increasing their powers of concentration.

Babies are excellent teachers, so take time to observe and learn from your baby. Study baby’s movements, periods of stillness and breathing. Discover the vast qualities and skills which baby possesses, including:
Determination; willpower; concentration; eagerness to learn; ability to change moods instantly; expression of emotion; lack of inhibition; capacity to enjoy quiet ‘in the moment’ time; aptitude to alternate calm and busy times; skilful at cat/power napping; able to enjoy peaceful sleep anywhere, anytime; capable of being completely resourceful; proficient at interacting with others; babies also use every sense to the best of their ability.

When practising Yoga I began to identify classical postures and movements which could be safely adapted when introducing Yoga to baby. I already teach adults and have extensive experience of working with children so it seemed a natural step to start with babies.

Please Note: This photograph was taken by Avril in Pokhara, Nepal in 1989 when she stayed with this family. The baby shares the same birthday as Avril.