Yoga for Down’s Syndrome

What are the benefits for Down’s Syndrome?

As children and adults with Down’s Syndrome break down new barriers everyday, a yoga practice is no exception!

Yoga can help with the physical challenges of hypotonia and hyper-mobility by building muscle strength and alignment, from a place of safety and awareness. In addition, yoga works on the breath, strengthening the diaphragm muscle for optimal breathing.

This not only impacts the breath, but also the heart and all internal systems.

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 not so into exercise?

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

Children with Down’s Syndrome usually love the practice, especially chanting mantra and breathing exercises. Simple but powerful poses allow your child to build body awareness and body confidence. Many people who don’t like sports love yoga for the meditative, non-competitive and fun aspects it brings!

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

The Science

The latest…

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

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

    George, Archway

  • "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

  • "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