Blossom Yoga therapy
Blossom Yoga are specialists in therapeutic yoga classes and interventions for children and young people with special needs. We have devised specific programmes which encompass a wide range of techniques that are ideal for children and young people with autism, sensory processing disorder, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, emotional behavioural disorder, down syndrome and physical disability. Our techniques include relaxation and visualisation work, mudras (hand gestures) which have certain healing benefits, breathing and posture work. Our yoga therapy sessions vary in length and are tailored for one to one or small group interventions. Our longer therapy sessions are based on themes and include the core yoga therapy work as well as creative work.
The benefits of Blossom Yoga for children with autism
- Blossom Yoga develops motor skills so it is hugely beneficial for young people who frequently experience delayed motor development. The yoga therapy tones muscles, enhances balance and stability and develops body awareness and co-ordination. As motor skills develop, students have a greater sense of their physical self in space and in relation to others and can improve their posture and stability.
- Blossom Yoga improves confidence and social skills. Poor co-ordination often yields low self-esteem. By learning self-control and self-calming techniques through the yoga therapy students are likely to grow in confidence when interacting with other children and refine their social skills.
- Blossom Yoga provides sensory integration. The yoga therapy creates a comforting environment largely protected from unknown or aggressive stimuli in which calming down becomes enjoyable. The physical postures allow nervous energy to be released from the body in a controlled manner, also leading to a calming sensation. Less stimulation means less uncontrollable behaviour, outbursts and repetitive nervous movements.
- Blossom Yoga provides coping techniques. Students learn breathing techniques for self-calming and guided visualisations to use when they get anxious. When learnt, these ‘tools’ can be used independently by the young person in times of need.
- Blossom Yoga facilitates self awareness and is particularly instrumental in helping young people learn self regulation. By becoming aware of their bodies and aware of their breathing, the yoga therapy provides them with the ability to cope when they start to feel anxious or upset.
- Blossom Yoga engages the emotional brain. The combination of movement, music, breath work and storytelling activates the brain’s emotional region. This encourages the students to develop awareness of their emotions and those of others, as well as keeps their attention in the class.
- Blossom Yoga is orderly and consistent. The element of order in the yoga class is very important for the young person as it communicates stability. Students also enjoy learning yoga sequences, such as modified sun salutations, that are performed in the same order each time and the same closing practice at the end of each class.
