Relaxing Yoga and Mindfulness for Kids (4-8 Grade)

TUESDAYS 4:15-5:15pm

It’s never too early to start a mindfulness practice! Using guided body scan and breathing mediations in partnership with fun yoga set to engaging music, we’ll give our bodies and minds a chance to re-set, stretch, and relax. Playlists range from Disney music to Gamer OST. We’ll work on correcting our posture, paying close attention to the posture problems introduced by technology or gaming for long periods of time. A study on a mindfulness program for children found that mindfulness improved emotion regulation, mood, empathy, confidence and self-esteem, coping and social skills, and the ability to pay attention and focus. A fun class that ends with a deep, relaxing, delicious rest, come and enjoy learning how to take good care of your body and mind, leaving you refreshed and deeply rested. 

Instructor: Donna Rucinski Harrington

Donna received her initial yoga training at Kripalu in 2011. A former software engineer and technology teacher, her career took a turn when she switched from teaching Robotics to teaching yoga at a local high school. The opportunity to learn more about the effects of yoga, mindfulness and nature on humans and to apply secular and evidence-based endorsement of the benefits of yoga appealed to her inner scientist. The classes for teens who sometimes struggle with anxiety, stress, or depression gave new meaning to her work. She tries to present an array of yoga experiences by teaching Vinyassa, Hatha, Yin and Restorative to her students. But Restorative is a clear favorite of both the students and the teacher, as it gives all a chance to settle deeply into the present moment in a sweet, nurturing way. She received her Restorative Yoga Certification at Kriplau in January of 2018. 

She curates her playlists for the enhancement of the yoga experience, as well as to the changing and particular tastes of a younger generation. Donna has four grown-ish children, is a proud resident of Lowell, and enjoys writing, reading, biking and hiking.