Yoga: a kids’ guide to an ancient practice for calm minds and strong bodies

This children’s article, Yoga: a kids’ guide to an ancient practice for calm minds and strong bodies, has been written for native English speakers and learners of English as a second or foreign language. It can help children build vocabulary, learn about the history of yoga, and discover how people practise it today. Written by Mark Pulley, a teacher and writer who creates fun and informative news articles for English learners.

Where yoga began

Yoga is one of the oldest physical and mental practices in the world. It began in ancient India thousands of years ago, long before modern sports or gyms existed. Early yoga was closely linked to meditation, breathing, and learning how to control the mind. People believed that practising yoga could help them understand themselves better and live more peacefully.

Over many centuries, yoga has changed and developed. Different teachers passed down their knowledge to students, who added new ideas and movements. Today, yoga is practised in almost every country, but its roots remain firmly in India.

How do people practise yoga?

Modern yoga combines gentle movements, stretching, breathing exercises, and moments of quiet focus. People often use mats, which stop them slipping as they move through different poses.

There are many styles, each with its own feeling. Some types are slow and calm, such as Hatha yoga. Others are faster and more challenging, like Vinyasa or Ashtanga. Restorative yoga focuses on relaxation, while hot yoga takes place in a heated room to make muscles warm and flexible.

Although the styles differ, the aim is usually the same: to practise breathing, build strength, improve balance, and find a sense of calm.

Famous yoga poses

Many yoga poses have imaginative names that help learners remember them. One of the most famous is called downward dog, where you form an upside-down “V” shape with your hands and feet on the ground, just like a dog stretches after a nap. 

Another well-known pose is the tree pose, where you stand on one leg and hold your balance like a tall, steady tree.

The Cobra Pose asks you to lie on your stomach and lift your chest, as if you were a rising snake. Warrior pose involves strong, wide stances that make you feel brave and powerful. These names help children and adults picture the movement before trying it.

Yoga in the modern world

Yoga has become extremely popular in recent years. People practise in parks, schools, gyms, and even online classes. Many children learn yoga to help them relax after busy days at school or sports practice. Adults often use yoga to reduce stress, improve flexibility, and stay healthy.

Scientists have studied yoga and found that regular practice can improve posture, reduce anxiety, and strengthen muscles. Thanks to this, yoga is now an important part of modern fitness and well-being all around the world.

Article vocabulary list

• Meditation: Quiet thinking to help calm the mind.
• Flexible: Able to bend or stretch easily.
• Balance: Staying steady without falling.
• Relaxation: A calm and peaceful state.
• Strength: How strong your muscles are.
• Pose: A body position used in yoga.
• Posture: The way you hold your body when standing or sitting.
• Anxiety: Feelings of worry or nervousness.
• Restorative: Helping the body or mind rest and recover.
• Challenging: Difficult but enjoyable to try.

Comprehension questions

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