The relaxation techniques of Yoga has huge benefits on one’s health and overall being. It’s a form of therapy that has been practised for centuries and praised for its many benefits.
Even parents are encouraging their children to begin this healthy practise at a young age, so that it becomes a habit for them to continue practising this physical, mental, and spiritual activity in the future.
Some people cultivate this form of meditation very seriously because it is said that the yogic way of life can help people realise their higher purpose in life.
On that note, there is a yoga instructor and practitioner who not only teaches this lovely art form to adults and children, but also to autistic children and teenagers.
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a developmental disability caused by differences in the brain, as many people are aware. Some ASD sufferers have a known difference, such as a genetic condition. Other causes have yet to be discovered.
But, whatever the reason is, the people who have been diagnosed with the disorder are the ones who are most likely to be affected.
For them, living a normal life appears to be impossible. Jamunarani Aenpalagan, a yoga instructor, recognises the complexities of people with autism and is working to change that by teaching them yoga. She is a certified yoga instructor from the Sakthi School of Yoga, where she received her training from Master SK Durai, a well-known yogi in Malaysia.
Since 2016, she has been a yoga instructor, with a focus on autistic children since 2019.
Rashwin, a significant student whom she teaches, is autistic as well. Teaching him yoga has resulted in numerous changes. Rashwin’s mother, Krishna Veni, claims that yoga has helped him strengthen his muscles, improve his body balance, and increase his awareness of his body.
Rashwin is only four years old, but he is already able to balance his body and respond to eye contact. Things like this may appear simple to a typical child, but not to a child with autism.
Change, according to Jamunarani, takes a long time. Change is often difficult for these children to accept. As a result, it would be difficult for the instructor to determine each child’s pace and bring out the best in them.
Autistic children must understand that they are perfect individuals, who are accepted by society. It is a big hurdle, but it is one that can be overcome with patience and self belief.
Yoga offers a wide range of structured and focused activities that are tailored to the needs of autistic children. These activities promote social communication, interaction, and motor skill development.
Jamunarani also believes that children with autism are capable of living normal lives. They require the community’s love and support and negative perceptions of special children should be avoided by society.
Source: Sastera Kavyan
