Cambridge author launches new yoga book for children

For thousands of years, yoga has been benefiting people’s health – both mental and physical. So you would think there was little left to say on the subject. Not so.

Cambridge author and experienced yoga teacher Karin Eklund was inspired to write Kids Yoga after spotting a lack of guides aimed specifically at children.

The book, which has been written and illustrated by 42-year-old Karin, is set to be released next week.

“Most children’s yoga books are aimed at adults who want to introduce children to yoga,” explained Karin, who grew up in Sweden.

“Kids Yoga is a picture book which allows very young children to jump straight in and begin copying the poses illustrated. As they get older, they can read the text to move more precisely into the pose.”

Kids Yoga is a beautifully illustrated children’s guide to yoga which can be enjoyed by even the youngest of beginners. Starting with simple activities, it takes your child through a simple exercise routine. It is great for keeping growing bodies healthy and fit, and young minds engaged and focused.

The poses included are based on the ancient art and practice of yoga, which seeks to bring mind, body and breath into harmonious alignment.

“It’s very important for children to get moving and especially as they sit down all day at school. It’s also not competitive as not all children enjoy competing,” said Karin. “Instead it’s a calm place for them to come and enjoy moving.”

Karin studied a masters degree in children’s illustration at Anglia Ruskin University and has since been working as a part-time illustrator and part-time yoga teacher. She created the illustrations for the book while on the course.

“I love being able to combine my two interests,” she said. “A lot of the poses are influenced by nature and animals, and usually it’s just photographs, so I thought for children it would be good to see them as animals.”

Karin teaches 10 yoga classes a week, including pregnancy yoga and classes for beginners. She has been teaching since 2006 after spending some time in Mysore, India.

She will be launching Kids Yoga on September 17 at Satyam Yoga Centre, where she will be signing copies.