Stretching Exercises for Kids

If daylight saving time (arriving this year on March 8) leaves everyone in your house feeling sluggish, try boosting the energy level with some simple yoga moves. "Doing yoga can improve circulation and energy flow and increase concentration and focus," says Jodi Komitor, a kids' yoga expert and host of the new Gaiam Yoga for Kids DVD series. Want to see for yourself? Jodi recommends the following four stretches, designed to work your muscles, awaken your senses, and take you from sleepwalking to sprightly in no time.

Originally published in the March 2015 issue of FamilyFun magazine.

Stand with your legs a few feet apart. Inhale and bring your palms together as shown. Slightly turn out one foot and exhale as you bend the knee of the same leg, keeping the other foot anchored. Look up and hold the position for 8 to 10 seconds. Repeat 2 to 3 times on each leg.

Originally published in the March 2015 issue of FamilyFun magazine.

Stand as you would for Warrior I, but stretch your arms as shown. Slightly turn out your foot and exhale as in Warrior I. Look out over the bent leg. Hold for 8 to 10 seconds. Repeat 2 to 3 times on each leg.

Originally published in the March 2015 issue of FamilyFun magazine.

Kneel and sit on your feet. Extend your arms and spread your fingers as shown. Inhale deeply through your nose as you open your eyes wide. Open your mouth wide, stretch out your tongue, and roar as you exhale. Repeat 4 to 6 times.

Originally published in the March 2015 issue of FamilyFun magazine.

Stand with feet hip-width apart. Inhale and bring your palms together as shown. Exhale and bend your knees. Try to hold the position for 30 seconds. Repeat 4 to 6 times.

Originally published in the March 2015 issue of FamilyFun magazine.