7 Must-Do Gurukul Practices in a Kids Yoga Class
In the ancient Gurukul system of education, learning was not just about academics—it was about shaping the body, mind, and spirit of every child. Yoga was woven into everyday life, helping children stay focused, joyful, and resilient.
Today, our modern kids carry busy minds and restless energy. The good news? The timeless practices of the Gurukul way still hold the key to helping children grow stronger, calmer, and more connected—and they fit beautifully into kids’ yoga classes.
Whether you’re a parent curious about yoga benefits for your child or a yoga trainer looking for authentic yet fun ideas for your sessions, here are 7 must-do practices to bring the Gurukul magic alive in every class.
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Pranayama for a Fresh Start
In Gurukuls, mornings began with deep, mindful breathing.
Start your class with simple pranayama practices like Bhramari (Bumblebee Breath) or Anulom Vilom (Alternate Nostril Breathing).
These help children focus, calm their minds, and energize their bodies before diving into yoga poses.
Use fun cues like “Let’s buzz like a bee” or “Make a rainbow breath” to keep it playful.
Trainer Tip: Encourage kids to notice how their bodies feel before and after. It builds early awareness of the breath–mind connection.
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Chanting for Emotional Balance
Mantras were central in Gurukuls for memory, focus, and emotional stability.
Begin with simple chants like Om or Shanti Mantra.
Kids love rhythmic sounds, and chanting helps synchronize breath, sound, and emotions, creating a sense of peace.
For Parents: Chant together at home. It builds family bonding and teaches children the power of collective calmness.
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Storytelling Through Yoga Poses
Gurukuls taught values through stories—and so can your kids’ yoga class!
Weave mythological tales, animal adventures, or moral stories into yoga poses.
Example: While practicing Tree Pose, narrate how a tree stands tall through sunshine and storms, teaching resilience.
Trainer Tip: Sneha Shankar’s self-authored kids yoga book is full of stories aligned with yogic wisdom, making this super easy and engaging.
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Asanas With a Purpose
In the Gurukul way, physical movement was tied to mental discipline.
Choose 5–7 kid-friendly asanas like:
- Mountain Pose
- Cobra Pose
- Butterfly Pose
- Lion’s Breath
- Child’s Pose
Focus on balance, flexibility, and body awareness, but keep it fun—let kids roar like lions or flutter like butterflies!
For Parents: Even 10 minutes of these poses at home can improve your child’s posture, coordination, and confidence.
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Group Activities for Team Spirit
Gurukuls encouraged collaborative learning over competition.
Try partner yoga poses or a yoga relay where kids cheer for each other.
These activities build empathy, cooperation, and communication skills while keeping the class lively.
Trainer Tip: Highlight team success, not individual perfection. It nurtures self-esteem and inclusivity.
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Mindfulness Moments
Silent reflection was an essential Gurukul practice.
After active poses, guide kids into a minute of mindful stillness—listening to sounds, noticing their heartbeat, or feeling their breath.
This simple pause helps children regulate emotions and stay present in the moment.
For Parents: Practice this at bedtime. It helps kids wind down and sleep better.
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Gratitude and Closing Rituals
Gurukuls ended the day with gratitude towards nature, teachers, and learning.
Close your class with kids sharing one thing they are grateful for—a friend, a pet, or even the yoga session itself.
Teach a simple Namaste gesture or a thank-you mantra to complete the circle.
Trainer Tip: Consistent closing rituals help children carry calmness beyond the yoga mat into daily life.
Bringing It All Together
The Gurukul way wasn’t about rigid routines—it was about creating balanced, joyful, and mindful learners. When kids experience yoga through breath, movement, stories, mindfulness, and gratitude, they develop:
- Sharper focus for studies
- Better emotional regulation
- Healthier social connections
- A lifelong love for learning and self-care
Yoga Tales for Young Minds is a book, filled with kids yoga stories, teaching tips, and practical guidance. It is the perfect companion for parents and trainers who want to bring these authentic practices to life. Order your copy at www.kathasarathi.com.