Guest post by Rachel Greb
In recent years Autism has become a much more commonly heard word. The number of children and adults diagnosed has been on the rise and continues to rise each year.
What is Autism
Autism is a Spectrum Disorder, meaning that it is a group of disorders with different features from mild to severe. People with Autism have difficulties with social interaction and communication, cognitive levels vary form very low to genius. Autism can usually first be seen before the age of three and creates delays in all aspects of an individual’s daily life.
Some things that may be present in chilren with Autism include:
- problems in social situations
- issues with sleep
- tantrums
- hyperactivity
- repetitive behavior
- language delays or echolalia (echoing what another person said)
These symptoms can create low self-esteem and low self worth.
Yoga for Autism
With the diagnosis of Autism being on the rise it is very important that we find, research and implement techniques to help these children in their daily lives. Yoga, including asana (postures)and pranayama (breathing techniques), is a technique that can greatly benefit a child with Autism throughout their entire life.
Yoga can teach a child to breath and gain back some control over their behavior, helping with self-esteem and self-worth. Breathing skill are wonderful to learn for when children with Autism are anxious in social situations or starting to feel angry. Yoga can help with balance and focus which can help with concentration and attention and increase cognitive skills. Transitions times are often difficult for a child with Autism and this is a great time to implement yoga and breathing skills. Teaching a child relaxation and how to quiet their minds can help with sleep, stress and an overall feeling of well-being.
When teaching a child with Autism we must first remember that every child is unique and an individual. We need to be sure that when we begin teaching yoga to children with Autism to create a safe space where they are able to explore, and work out a pace that they feel comfortable with. A teacher may also want to create a ‘peace zone’ or ‘yoga area’ in which children can go and practice yoga or pranayama when needed.
Sensory issues can also be problematic. Teachers will want to be sure not to over stimulate the child as this can create an outburst. The room should have low lights and not too much on the walls and floors. You need to take the time to get to know each student and if there are other physical disabilities or specific sensory issues. Visual aides are key, as is using short sentences that thoroughly explain directions. Modeling is also a wonderful technique. Steer clear of metaphors as this can be very confusing to a child with Autism because they are usually very literal thinkers.
Often you will come across a pose or breathing technique that a child does not want to do at that time. When this occurs “first, then statements” are very helpful. For example, “First yoga, then you can play blocks.” Come in with a plan but be flexible. Do not forget to make it a fun, non-competitive experience.
Yoga is something that can be done by everyone and is a gift that once it is open can be used throughout a person’s life.
Rachel Greb, YogaSprouts’ owner and founder, completed her undergraduate studies at Tulane University and was awarded a Master of Arts from Piedmont College specializing in educating children with emotional and behavioral disorders such as Autism. During her studies, she came upon the excellent therapeutic benefits of yoga and consequently, became certified in children’s yoga. Since then, she has and continues to study yoga under renowned yoga instructors in several training programs. YogaSprouts’ mission is to help all children and young adults achieve their highest potential and experience enduring health and happiness. For information about Rachel Greb and YogaSprouts please visit www.yogasprouts.com
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there is still no permament solution for autism. we just have to take good care of the kids who are suffering autism.”‘,