Stretch into spring: become a butterfly

Wake up your body for spring with some simple yoga stretches. Encourage your child to join in, showing them what to do as you move into each pose.   

Remember to only do what feels comfortable for your body, and your child. We recommend finding a calm space with plenty of room to move. You can do these simple yoga stretches on a yoga mat, or use a rug, playmat or towel to soften the ground beneath your feet. If you’re between spring showers head outside and do some gentle yoga outdoors in the garden, or even in the park.  

• Sitting comfortably, breathe deeply in and out. It can help to put a hand on your tummy and feel it moving in and out as you breathe to centre yourself.  
• Start as a caterpillar. Lying on your tummy, stretch out with your arms by your sides and legs straight. Breathe in and out, then gently lift your head off the ground and wiggle side to side to move like a caterpillar.  
• Curl into a cocoon. Move into child’s pose by bringing your legs up so you are kneeling with your feet under your bottom. Gently curl your body over your knees. You can rest your arms by your sides, or stretch them out past your head. Breathe in deeply and feel your body relax as you breathe out.  
• Transform into a butterfly. Bring yourself up to a sitting position, get comfortable with your knees up in front of you and your feet on the floor. Gently allow your legs to fall open so that the soles of your feet are touching and your knees are pointing out like butterfly wings. Breathe in and out, stretching your spine. Gently flap your ‘wings’ up and down like a butterfly.  

If your child is feeling calm and relaxed, take a moment to both lie on your back. Get comfy and close your eyes. It is okay if your little one is most comfortable wriggling around a little. Listen to the sounds around you and take turns to name what you hear, or talk about how your body feels after the stretches.