Incidence of childhood developmental disabilities in general and autism spectrum disorder in specific are in alarming increase as the results of hazards of modern civilization. “We can do nothing about it,” “you have to live with that” are the recent slogans heard. At this stage as the able human beings, we have the undeniable responsibility to help and enlighten the children with disabilities in all possible ways, so that they can help themselves and become productive citizens in the society.
In this mission we at Swabhimaan, incorporate inputs from ancient Indian medical sciences like Siddha, Yoga, Ayurveda and Naturopathy and their quintessential benefits are sure to help the children in need. Yogic practices play a key role in it and it also complements all the other interventions
We customize yoga therapy for the children with special needs in a unique way. To educate the child is to educate yourself. It is not only the circle of people around the child but the whole environment in which he finds himself he should create an outright positive, child friendly environment for the child to learn yoga.
A person attempting to teach yoga practices may easily become frustrated when controlled by an emotionally unstable child the keep point is to remain objective. The child may be defiant and show anger, but he may likely to be using this instructor to express the anger he feels for someone else or something else.
It is difficult to categorically express how we impart yoga to the child. We need to be more versatile with the child. Some children may learn from imitation, some from instruction and some from physical assistance. Also, we cannot expect that the particular child will learn from same mode of learning every day.
In any case, yoga cannot be forced on anyone, so it is up to the doctor/therapist to devise ways of introducing yogic techniques so that they appeal to the imagination of the child.
The purpose of yogic exercises is to induce deep relaxation, so that negative compressions locked in the unconscious mind will float to the surface and be dissipated of the child can experience even a brief period of mental relaxation he will gain insight into his own behavior.
Yoga helps children in fully developing their latent mental faculties and intelligence.
Most of the children with communication disorders and emotional disorders have pent up feelings of anger and aggression. For them karma yoga along with yogic practices should be provided to help release and re-channel their energies in a more constructive way.
A competent yoga teacher can be instrumental in instilling a high self-concept and an attitude of inner discipline.
It will be more beneficial to do yogic practices in a approximately same time every day. To restore health, we need to bring more rhythms in to life and yoga brings excellent rhythm in our physiological functioning.
