Many parents underestimate the importance of relaxation in their children's lives, finding it hard to believe that with their seemingly carefree existence children could not possibly be harbouring the stresses or frustrations of the world. However, recent studies have shown that many children who have difficulties relaxing or winding down suffer higher levels of stress not only as children but also as adults. This stress can lead to anxiety, low self-confidence and poor concentration. Whilst working as a children's entertainer, Marneta Viegas noticed this struggle in many children and came up with a fun and effective solution in the form of her program 'Relax Kids'.
Relax Kids was developed as an entertaining way for children to learn how to relax and in 2007 Marneta and her team embarked on on a three year pilot to further prove the benefits of relaxation in the lives of children. Based in a school in Liverpool, the research found that the relaxation techniques provided the kids with a toolkit of skills from which they would benefit right through to their adult lives. It was noted that the children taking part became more aware and understanding of their moods and emotions as well as the importance of thinking positively about themselves and others. Not only did the teachers observe a change in their ability to concentrate but also improved memory and listening skills which lead to better academic performance and achievement. It can also help improve emotional maturity as certain exercises focus on understanding different moods and feelings.
The Relax Kids program has many facets from Parent's Workshops to in-school 'Chill Skills' courses and Relax Kids after school groups. Marneta holds regular training courses and to date has trained over 600 teachers worldwide. Swiss business graduate Nicole Lordan qualified as a Relax Kids teacher in 2008 after coming across an advert for it in a magazine. After years of work experience and travelling Nicole decided on a change of career and took on a Wellness Trainer diploma course where she studied a combination of fitness training, relaxation techniques, massage and nutrition. She later completed another diploma course which qualified her in a number of areas of massage and reflexology as well as adding a knowledge of anatomy, physiology and pathology to her already extensive skill base.
As a wellness expert Nicole was aware of the benefits of relaxation in our daily lives as well as the detrimental impact that stress can have on us, both mentally and physically. The Relax Kids concept appealed to her as it introduces an awareness of relaxation at an early age. Now living in Tuam, Co. Galway Nicole teaches 'Chill Skills' to children in local schools as well as hosting once-off Parent's Workshops and after school groups. Having achieved such enormous success in schools in the UK Lordan would love to see the idea spread to more schools across Ireland.
The 'Chill Skills' program is an eight week in-school course for primary school children of seven years and older and is generally taught as an extra-curricular module during class time, in the same way that swimming or tin-whistle may be taught. Each week hosts a different theme from Positive Thinking Skills or Relax and De-Stress to Healthy Living. The central focus of each class is fun and enjoyment for the children. The classes begin with high energy games such as musical chairs and each exercise after that gradually lowers the energy levels. These exercises may include stretching, much of which is yoga based, helping with posture and balance. Each stretch would have an animal name which makes them easy for children to remember. This may be followed by breathing exercises or peer massage. There is a range of Relax Kids books and CDs which are used to aid visualisation exercises and provide positive affirmations.
The stories all begin in the same way so that the children are aware of what is to come "Close your eyes, be very still and imagine you are...." The stories take the children to various relaxing and interesting places from the softest bed in the world to a the body of a robot to a green field on a warm summers day. This visualisation method not only helps children to relax but encourages creativity and imagination. Each class also offers a positive affirmation for the children to remind them to love themselves as well as others. For example the children will be asked to repeat "Today I will be confident like a giant" to help them feel strong and confident no matter what is going on or "Today I will be honest like a mirror" to help children remember to be honest and to tell the truth. This kind of self affirmation is so important in children's lives as it reassures them that they are strong able young people.
Nicole has achieved only positive results and feedback from these classes. She explained that 'While it might seem surprising, many children do suffer from stress. Pressure to thrive academically or in extra-curricular activities can put a strain on children and failure to meet these standards which may be imaginary or otherwise, can lead to poor self-confidence and anxiety.' These stresses and strains can result in poor concentration, headaches and sleeping problems. Children of all ages and abilities can benefit from regular relaxation activities. It can be particularly valuable for kids who suffer from ADHD and special needs and is a great way to help children learn about and understand their moods and feelings
Relax Kids offers something different for children, separate to the usual competitive activities which are more readily available to them but still allows them to feel part of something special. Nicole Lordan is based in the Indigo Holistic Healing Centre in Tuam where you can find a range of Relax Kids products from books to CDs. Pop in to the Indigo Holistic Healing Centre, MG Business Park, Galway Road Tuam for more information or call Nicole on 093-70150. Further product information is available online at www.relaxkids.com
No comments:
Post a Comment