I sat and watched a good part of First Lady, Michelle Obama, speak about her biggest campaign, to date, and I cried. “Let’s move,” launched this past Tuesday and is aimed at conquering childhood obesity, in one generation! This means that children born today, could reach adulthood at a healthy weight. Currently, one in three United States children are considered obese or overweight. This sadly makes our country the leader in the developed world, in regard to this problem. The negative impact this has on our children’s health and self-esteem borders criminal.
From huge media companies such as Walt Disney and NBC, to major food suppliers such as Kraft and Sara Lee, many are anxious to get on board and help with this new White House initiative. Cutting down on sugar, salt and fat while increasing whole grains and produce, has been promised by those that supply foods to school cafeterias and professional athletes have stepped up to urge children to put down the video games and get some physical recreation.
White House First Ladies always have a mission. This one speaks to me personally and professionally, hence the tears. Thank you, Michelle, for caring about OUR children. I am not yet sure what I can do to be a part of this movement, but my wheels are spinning.
For today I will offer this suggestion on a book I just saw written up in one of my trade magazines. Since books make great gifts for children, why not consider this one or one like it, when next bringing or sending a gift to a young child. This particular book is called The ABCs of Yoga for Kids by Theresa Anne Poser. It teaches them the alphabet while going through a set of poses from airplane, to dog. Illustrated by Kathleen Rietz, it gives lyrical explanations of all the poses. I have often given another children’s yoga book called Barbar’s Yoga for Elephants. It’s definitely for an older child, or even an adult! Maybe we all need to think more about giving gifts that encourage movement…from chalk for hopscotch, to jump-ropes, skates and bicycles there really are unlimited options!
There are endless ways to get children moving more. We just need to make it a priority. As with all things, children tend to learn from what they see, not from what they are told, so get moving!
“Be the change you want to see in the world” Mahatma Gandhi
It is unfortunate that many young people today are sucked into computer games which is a direct cause of being sedentary. Yes, it is brain exercise, if you call it that. I personally like the idea of “moving around.”
I totally love the Barbar’s Yoga for Elephants book that you so generously gave to me. I have read it to my elementary students and believe it or not, I have also shared it with my college students when we study wellness. Namaste!
Yes meditation and yoga can help you focus and dilispicne your mind and soul. However, there are proper techniques that you should learn. Either you can join classes in order to get a proper professional lesson or else if you want to learn by yourself then try to buy DVDs- for beginners (there are several in the market). Simple ways to do yoga involves breathing and concentration. I can’t explain the postures because it is better for you to have visuals. So I suggest you look for books or DVDs or even websites that gives you a thorough direction on both yoga and meditation. Good luck:)