Storytime Yoga

Storytime Yoga is a type of yoga class that blends stories and yoga into a unique experience for participants. Developed by Sydney Solis, certification in Storytime Yoga is offered to yoga teachers, elementary school teachers, parents, and anyone interested in working with children. The training, offered in three parts, is completed via phone calls, skype and the internet. Participants come from all around the world.

In the trainings, participants receive her two books, Storytime Yoga and The Treasure in Your Heart, which have numerous stories written by Sydney and others. All stories may be used in Storytime Yoga classes. Participants also learn to use symbols and dreams to interpret the happenings in their own lives. Many new stories can emerge just by listening to and interpreting these dreams and symbols.

Classes typically consist of an opening/introduction, a story orally told by the teacher, acting out the story through yoga poses (asanas), a story re-tell by students and a final resting phase (Savasana). Classes can be as short as a half hour, to as long as an hour and a half. Other components can be added, including games, dancing and appropriate props depending on the age of the participants. While the audience is directed at children aged 5 to 12, Storytime Yoga is also appropriate for younger children with parents involved, and for teens and adults.

The aim of yoga is to listen to the body, find balance and to learn to be more accepting of self and others. Storytime Yoga is a perfect pairing of stories with positive, affirming messages and working with the story through the body. Mind and body are connected and Storytime Yoga affirms this in so many ways. Numerous tales from around the world have positive messages that entertain and teach young and old; folk tales, fairy tales, zen stories, etc. are all appropriate Storytime Yoga material. All stories are told orally, without the use of a book, by the teacher so students can use their listening skills and imagination to see the story in their own minds. In a world inundated with television, internet and other mass media, Storytime Yoga is a breath of fresh air and a healing art for both teacher and students.

To learn more, visit the Storytime Yoga website.
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