Yoga for autism

What are the benefits for autism?

Yoga can help with common issues such as sensory overload and social anxiety.

Just like typical people in modern society, people with autism are often bombarded with digital stimulation, jangling the nervous system. Yoga is a chance to reset and bring us into balance, peace and calm.

Getting to know our breath is the first step, and allows us to calm the nervous system, reducing stress and improving digestion.

What happens in the class?

We will work towards a full Hatha yoga class that includes singing, yoga poses, breathing techniques, eye exercises and a deep relaxation.

We go into class with no expectations but to connect, have fun, and relax body and mind!

However, over time the practices can have a very profound and deep effect on all the body's systems, brain chemistry and the emotions.

What if my child is profoundly autistic?

The yoga method we practice is gentle and designed to connect with every child.

Children with autism usually love the practice, especially chanting and singing. Simple yoga poses and relaxation will allow your child to release tension and anxiety, through stretching the body and breathing deeper.

If a child is not breathing well, for example through their mouth rather than their nose, which impacts them a lot, yoga can help :)

The Science

The latest neuroscience research finds that those with autism experience difficulties connecting between two important areas of the brain - the Pre-Frontal Cortex and the Cerebellum. These brain pathways are associated with fine-motor skills, facial expression recognition and movement, and also executive functioning.

Breathwork and yoga has been found to strengthen these connections.

Physical benefits:

  1. Full workout and extension for the spine and improved posture

  2. Increased strength and mobility

  3. Boost in blood circulation, providing increased oxygen and nutrients around the body

  4. Twists and compressions balancing the digestive system and nervous system

Mental benefits:

  1. Deepening and lengthening the breath during class calms the emotions and mental chatter

  2. Yoga oxygenates the brain…

  3. Practicing focus and concentration improves it off the mat too

  4. Proven better coordination and memory

Let’s go step-by-step!

Message me today for a free 20-minute discovery call and to learn more about an evaluation session.

I’m looking forward to connecting with you!

Testimonials

  • "Aaron had a fantastic one-to-one session. Laura was able to get him fully focused and engaged in all the yoga poses. A triumph, as new things are not always enjoyable for him. Laura was very patient and gave Aaron much needed time to grasp what to do."

    Brigette, carer

  • "My son Hewitt gained a lot on stretching and body movements. He has severe epilepsy on top of autism and learning disabilies. Yoga has helped him to keep his mobility, flexibility and maintain his quality of life. With the patience of Laura, he could enjoy the time in class and had smiles and satisfaction. Thank you Laura."

    Josephine, mother

  • "I do yoga with Laura. She helps me with stretching and yoga poses. Yoga makes me happy."

    George, Archway

  • "Adam really enjoyed the classes both in person and also via Zoom. He was looking forward to them and managed to relax despite his pronounced ADHD."

    Dorota, Islington

  • "I always feel great after my yoga session. I have some physical issues that mean I am almost permanently in a wheelchair. It feels great to get out of my wheelchair and to be supported by Laura in doing my yoga. It relaxes both my body and mind. It also helps with my breathing, which at times is difficult for me to do. When the staff team let me know I'm going to yoga, I'm always excited. I've never not wanted to attend because I enjoy it so much."

    Keith, Kentish Town