I thought it might be helpful to share how I tend to do Savasana for the kids at the end of a yoga session. If anyone else has any ideas, please share!
It’s great to use the story you are telling to wind young yogis down into their relaxation, so that they are in a comfortable supine position by the time their story ends. For example, I might say:
‘we tip toe back into our home and find our way up stairs into bed and lie down’ or ‘we get onto the back of a bird with lovely soft feathers, lying down as the bird spreads it wings and flies off into the sky, carrying us up into the air heading home full of the joy of our story’.
Then, invite the children to make themselves as comfortable as they can be – in a traditional savasana position, or makrasana (crocodile) on their front letting the backs of the hands be a pillow for the forehead, or on their side.
Speak in a calm, soft voice and slow down the pace. Suggest they allow their eyes to close, but if they don’t want to, of course this is fine too. I tend to say that I will keep my eyes open so it’s safe for them to close theirs. Once everyone is settled, invite the children to spend some time being kind to themselves. Explain that we can give ourselves a little gift of relaxation – and that this is what we are doing when we come to this resting position. This helps children take ownership of the relaxation. If we’re not careful, telling the kids to lie down and close their eyes can sound like a series of commands to them, so help them decide that they want to do it.
If we’re not careful, telling the kids to lie down and close their eyes can sound like a series of commands to them, so help them decide that they want to do it.
Optional props that help get everyone physically comfortable:
- Lavender pillows – placed over the eyes or resting on their tummy, or sometimes used as a pillow. This can really help them find stillness and be comfortable with their eyes closed.
- Blankets – soft fleecy blankets that you lay over the children and tuck them in are great for getting everyone relaxed.
- Music – gentle and soothing music, ideally not too eerie or in minor key as some adult savasana music can be. It’s also good if you can find music that is relevant to your story.
Hope this helps. Please post your own ideas and suggestions!
