Whether they’re permanently attached to their favourite device or studying hard for exams, there’s no denying that children today lead busy lives. As adults, embracing conscious living by practicing yoga is a lifestyle choice that many of us make to calm the frenetic pace of life – and it can benefit children, too. As the fastest growing fitness activity, it’s little wonder yoga has picked up a burgeoning group of young followers.
London’s TRIYOGA is one of the city’s premiere destinations for children’s yoga. With 15 years’ experience teaching youngsters, Annie Carpenter is an expert on little yogis. Today, she practices in Chelsea. “Yoga is an excellent practice for children” she explains. “It can increase their coordination, concentration, self-awareness and self-esteem, whilst boosting stamina and developing good posture. It is a wonderful tool for both body and mind.”
Yoga is also a great stress and anxiety alleviator. “By practising yoga and mindfulness in a safe environment, they can learn tools to calm down, slow down and feel better when they are sad or upset. For instance, gentle breathing exercises like blowing their sad feelings away in a balloon, or using a breathing buddy to relax them, are fantastic techniques.”
While travelling it’s important to maintain both you and your child’s fitness routines, with a wealth of Rocco Forte Hotels recognising the importance of wellbeing for our younger and older guests. At Munich’s The Charles Hotel, the Spa has an exceptional program of special classes and treatments for children. From yoga or Pilates personal training to chill-out massages and mini makeovers, you can treat your family to a range of extraordinary wellness experiences whether they’re seasoned yogis or new to the practice.
Children are adaptable and take to yoga incredibly quickly. “Kids live in the moment”, Annie reveals. “They tend not to worry if they are doing it exactly right, or if they can't do it. They just throw themselves in and play. Yoga is non-competitive, so there are no set levels or grading that they have to achieve - just whatever their bodies can do that day.”
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In Sicily, family is both foundation and compass. It shapes the way people live, a framework for generosity that extends beyond bloodlines. To be welcomed here is to be drawn into that circle, to share in the easy warmth of belonging.
For many, dogs are part of the family, and their place is with us - even when we travel. In some of Europe’s most beautiful cities, our hotels extend a warm welcome to your four-legged friends, with thoughtful touches in-room, friendly spaces to ‘paws’ together, and a concierge ready with tips for the best local walks. From shaded parks to riverside trails and neighbourhood cafés that set out water bowls at the door, every detail is designed to make them feel as at home as you do.
Contrary to popular belief, a sense of wellbeing doesn’t have to follow a set formula. Rather, it’s simply the moments which bring you back to yourself. For some, it’s a morning swim followed by a restorative massage. For others, it’s curling up in a quiet corner with a good book, or a pause beneath a centuries-old fresco in a hushed church. In Europe’s capitals, these precious moments of calm are easier to find than one might expect. Whilst a city break is often imagined as a fast-paced affair, sometimes we discover more when we choose to stand still.
