STRETCHING, moving and having fun is helping children to relax, gain confidence and improve their learning skills.

Children’s yoga and mindfulness instructor Sarah Colquitt is encouraging little boys and girls to develop more healthy lifestyles by teaching them kids yoga.

“I am very passionate about mental health and wellbeing,” said Sarah, 27, from Lostock Gralam.

“I have always wanted to work with children. Yoga offers everything that a child needs to become calm and happy. It’s a fun activity.”

Sarah has stimulated the physical, mental and emotional abilities of more than 100 children since she launched her pioneering business, The Little Yoga Warriors, in February.

“I have been very lucky to have received support to learn kids yoga and mindfulness and have the opportunity to volunteer in a school setting,” said Sarah.

“I knew in that moment that it was something I wanted to do. I now have the pleasure of sharing the beauty and benefits with as many children as I possibly can.

“Each child’s smile brings me an even bigger one.”

Sarah runs sessions for pre-schools, primary schools and clubs as well as private yoga parties.

 “I start with a warm-up,” said Sarah. “I find a story that has a life moral and put music and movement to it by introducing yoga poses as part of the story.

"After storytime I deliver relaxation.

“It helps them with their sleeping patterns.”

Yoga is a physical, mental and spiritual practice that originated in India.

“Little Yoga Warriors create positive minds and a healthier lifestyle through exercise and fun,” said Sarah. “Kids yoga is completely different to adult yoga.

“I just feel that yoga provides so many skills for life and gives children coping strategies so that if they feel angry or sad they know what they can do to help.”

“It builds their confidence, teaches them breathing techniques and self esteem.”

Research has revealed that an increasing number of young children suffer from anxiety and depression.

“If I can change that in only a handful of children I will be very happy,” said Sarah. “It is quite sad to think that young children suffer from depression.”

Moving and stretching exercises help the children to relax and unwind.

Techniques learnt during the classes can be used at home and school.

“Parents love it. Some stay during the lessons and implement it in their home life. Teachers say it helps children to concentrate in their lessons.”

Sarah is starting a new weekly class for children aged five to seven at Brio Rudheath Leisure Centre at 4pm on Friday, September 7.

A class for three to four-year-olds is being held the Abda coffee shop on Crown Street, Northwich, at 10.15am on Monday, September 17.

Yoga sessions for children aged four to seven will be held at Seven Sisters Ice Cream Farm in Knutsford on Saturday September 22 (animal storytime special) and Saturday, October 27 (Halloween special).