Catherine is a certified instructor of Yoga for the Special Child (www.specialyoga.com), a comprehensive program of yoga techniques designed to enhance the natural development of children with special needs. This style of yoga is gentle and therapeutic -- safe for babies and children with Down Syndrome, Cerebral Palsy, Autism, ADHD and other developmental disabilities. When children learn techniques for self-health, relaxation, and comfort, they can navigate life's stresses with a little more ease. Yoga at an early age encourages self-esteem and body awareness with a physical activity that's noncompetitive.
Children derive enormous benefits from yoga. Physically, it enhances their flexibility, motor planning, strength, coordination, and body awareness. In addition, their concentration and sense of calmness and relaxation improve. Doing yoga, children exercise, play, imagine, and develop a closer relationship with the natural world that surrounds them. Yoga brings that marvelous inner peace that can be developed as a lifelong gift to oneself. Plus it is a portable tool that can be used anywhere!
Catherine uses yoga and breathing techniques as part of her individualized therapy intervention for each child. The clinic also has many books and DVDs available for loan to parents.