Children's Services
CALM Yoga Therapy
CALM yoga therapy has been developed in response to the requirements of a wide range of children with special needs. I work with each child on a one to one basis so that their needs can be met. Children who experience learning challenges often present a variety of symptoms ;
* difficulties in maintaining a calm alert state of attention
* inability to perform motor tasks with stamina and or co-ordination
* awkwardness relating to others
* heightened sensitivity relating to sound, touch, smell and or movement
* poor short term memory
* extremes of emotion or distracted behaviour
* troublesome digestive and immune systems
Special needs children can often be overwhelmed by the mixed messages they are receiving from their bodies and this can contribute to heightened states of "stress". Children under stress tend to have short shallow breathing patterns and may be agitated or lethargic. Yoga therapy gently organises and orients the body and mind to help the child make sense of his or her environment. CALM is a 5 step therapeutic approach which, with patience and regular practice, can effectively: improve motor control, strength and motor planning; develop balance and the ability to relax; release tension, fear and frustration; increase self awareness and increase the brain chemicals necessary for substained attention. All of which can make a child calmer, more resilient to stress and help enhance learning.
“You have been brilliant with Francis and have the patience of a saint. I will happily give you a recommendation “ - Juliet, Cambridge
It is so important with these kids to reduce their cortisol and adrenaline levels to help them calm down. I was impressed with Christine's understanding of knowledge of co-ordination difficulties these children have. So if your are on the waiting list for the Occupational Therapist at the hospital I strongly advise you contact Christine for help." - Joan Lewis Clinical Nurse Specialist
