A FORMER radio journalist has embarked on a whole new career direction by offering yoga classes for children.
Emily McElarney, who lives in Rush with her husband and two young children, set up her new business, Stretch and Smile, earlier this month. The classes are held in Rush Community Centre on Tuesdays and in Yoga4All studios in Airside, Swords, on Wednesdays.
Emily, a qualified yoga teacher, offers classes for age groups ranging from 3-13-year-olds, with each session lasting 45 minutes. Classes include a relaxation session and breathing exercises and kids are then taught the classic hatha yoga asanas or postures.
Emily, who has previously worked for NewsTalk and Todayfm, explained that the emphasis is on teaching yoga through fun, stories, imaginary adventures, games and song.
“Children’s yoga has become hugely popular in the United States and the UK and it is growing here in Ireland, not least because of its amazing benefits for children,
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“Regular yoga practice hugely improves children’s strength, flexibility and fine motor skills.
“It teaches children how to clam and self-regulate in times of stress and worry and promotes a healthy outlook and – even better – healthy sleep!
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For further information on Emily’s yoga classes for children, visit www.stretchandsmile.com