Yoga is immensely popular nationwide. It’s not surprising that sooner or later this stress-reducing, fitness craze would reach the youngest among us—infants. Sudbury resident and yoga teacher Helen Garabedian believes yoga can help calm a baby, ease his digestion, lengthen his naps and promote neuromuscular development. Furthermore, Garabedian says her Itsy Bitsy Yoga program is a great bonding activity for parents and infants.

Garabedian, who teaches in Marlborough and Wellesley, developed Itsy Bitsy Yoga for parents and babies about five years ago. “Parents loved the classes so much that I knew I had to share the idea with more people, “she says. So Garabedian put together and Itsy Bitsy Yoga certification program, which now boasts more than 60 instructors across the U.S. and Canada. She also has a new book out, Itsy Bitsy Yoga (Fireside Books, 2004).

Itsy Bitsy Yoga teaches you to guide your baby into modified yoga poses. All activities are developmentally appropriate and safe for children, say s Garabedian. Singing, gentle touch, and attentiveness to your child’s particular pace are incorporated in the movements.

Children of any age, including newborns and toddlers, benefit from yoga, Garabedian says. They may sleep better, digest better and have an overall calmer disposition.

Itsy Bitsy Yoga affects caregivers, as well. “Mothers, fathers and grandparents feel more connected with their babies,” Garabedian says. “It’s all about nurturing and bonding.”

To learn amore about the Itsy Bitsy Yoga book or program, visit www.itsybitsyyoga.com

© Copyright 2004 Boston Parent's Paper