Yoga for the Special Child®

Therapeutic yoga practice for children and young people with additional and or complex needs and disabilities

Special Needs yoga, Yoga for special needs, Autism, downs syndrome, SP, SEN, Special Yoga, Yoga therapy

Yoga for the Special Child®  is a unique therapeutic yoga method that has changed the lives of countless children with special needs and disabilities around the world. The programme was pioneered by Sonia Sumar who herself had a daughter with Downs Syndrome.  

The Method

The method consists of an integrated series of balanced yoga poses to increase body awareness and strength.  Specialised breathing exercises, eye exercises and relaxation techniques improve focus and concentration. Vocal work improves speech, strengthens lungs and deeply oxygenates the whole entire body. Yoga for the Special Child is also a fantastic early intervention program that can assure the healthy formative development of infants and toddlers with special needs.

The Benefits

The benefits of regular yoga practice specifically for children with special needs and disabilities are countless:

  • Improved sleep

  • Improved behaviour, emotional balance and ability to transition from one activity to another

  • Better internal organ function

  • Improved breathing in daily activities thus better body function

  • Improved motor and muscular functions and self-regulation

  • Relaxed nervous system, leading to lower anxiety levels

  • Improvement in focus, coordination and communication skills

  • Better blood circulation and brain oxygenation, thus better cognition

  • Improved level of physical awareness

 

Yoga for the Special Child - Sonia Sumar Method supports the child's physical and mental development, helps to nurture, restore and balance the emotional well-being of the child, calm the mind, the nervous system, and strengthen the body.

Book An Evaluation

We deliver tailored 1-2-1 therapeutic yoga sessions at our modern yoga studio near Holloway Road Station in Islington, London. All of our therapists are trained in the Yoga for the Special Child methodology and undergo enhanced DBS checks. Read our Safeguarding Policy.