by Jasmine Healy-Pagan, Sundalah
Our young people are growing up in incredibly complex times. With the average person now absorbing five times more visual stimulation than in the 1980s, it is no wonder that our nervous systems are on overdrive. Simplicity, calm and the ability to focus are fast becoming rare experiences in daily life, with anxiety and depression related concerns rising at a rapid pace.
Young people today have regular access to amplified technology and a stream of social media that is uncontained and instantly accessible. Families struggle with incessant busyness and children are faced with ongoing difficulties at home. Numerous reports quote that at least one in four school students have been affected by bullying and a quarter of young Australians (age 14-25) are unhappy with their lives.
School was once a place that not only offered structured education, but also afforded some time for fun and flexibility with learning. Most schools now have overcrowded curriculums and an obsession with testing and data. This means less time for educators to explore spontaneous teaching, creativity and conversations which are relevant to young people’s lives.
Fortunately there are some ways to counter the effect of these concerns and step out of this unhealthy pace of life. The system of yoga shares the importance of self-regulation through tangible strategies that prioritise self-awareness and self care. Yoga is a non-competitive practice for all ages. Yoga fosters self-acceptance, improves focus, brings balance and ease into the body, relaxes the nervous system and creates clarity in the mind.
If any of these words have resonated with you or for your family, explore some yoga today and check out our Local Yoga Directory at sundalah.com.au. For kids and teens yoga, go to our Kids and Teens Page.
To bring the benefits of yoga into your school community contact www.yogatoolsforschools.com.au (now ytfs.com.au)
Have a wonderful day!
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