Yoga and Self-Esteem in Children
May 18, 2023
When you feel good about yourself it’s easier to be kind to others and to deal with the inevitable setbacks in life. Holding yourself in high regard is a natural outcome of feeling connected. Many techniques from the yoga tradition help children experience connection and “unconditional positive regard” for themselves, a term coined by humanistic psychologist Carl Rogers.
At the level of physical and energetic anatomy, self-esteem lives in the belly. This is the seat of the 3rd chakra and willpower. The energy trend in this area governs our ability to act in the world and the confidence to do so. Therefore, anything done to wake up and strengthen the abdominal area supports the development of self-esteem. Plank pose, Boat pose (Navasana) and Bow Pose (Dhanurasana) are some examples. Twists can be helpful as well.
At the level of the mind, meditation, mantra and mudra can help. It’s the mind that creates the idea of our self. A child who has a strong sense of who she is inside is less affected by the opinions of others outside. A simple mantra like “So Hum” (which means “I am”) or a mudra like Vajra (see image) can be used by a child anywhere, anytime to boost self-confidence and self-awareness. They can also be used in a formal seated meditation practice at home with parents, at school with their teacher or in their weekly yoga class. 
Vajra mudra is known as the “diamond” mudra and can help
a child experience their own energy and vitality.
Even unstructured free play gives children a chance to get to know and like themselves more. Allowing children time to play outside helps them develop a healthy sense of self as they experience firsthand their inherent connection to the natural world and their place in it.
Children receive many messages from the world around them about who they should be and what they should do and want. The more time a child has for personal self-reflection and quiet time, indoors or out, the more he will be able to hear that still, small voice within – his True Self – and bring that forth in the world with authenticity and joy.
Research shows that self-esteem often plummets around age 10. Yoga is most effective as a preventative method so start these techniques when children are 6 to 8 years old. And continue for life.
Yoga is a lifestyle. It includes the formal practices of yoga postures, regulated breathing, meditation and relaxation. These all help develop a strong sense of self. It also includes how we spend our days and the choices we make throughout. To help children develop healthy self-esteem, help them develop awareness and connection in all areas of life.
