Looking for a way to head off the ants that are bound to be in your kids’ pants once school lets out for the summer? Treat them to a yoga class, where they’ll learn to focus on the powerful connection between their minds and bodies. “It helps them channel their energy in a positive way,” says Nikki Peters, studio manager at Corepower Edina. With Mother’s Day coming up on May 8, both mommy and child will benefit from this invigorating yet relaxing practice. Check out our picks for the best yoga classes for Edina families.
Yoga for Tots
With classes for mothers ranging from prenatal to BYOB yoga (bring your own baby, that is), it’s no wonder Blooma has several offerings for kids and families as well. “It’s all about love and making everyone feel special. Edina families lead such busy lives, and when we take the time to slow down, learn to breathe and connect with our inner light, we can be the amazing person we are supposed to be,” says instructor Sarah Longacre, of the advantages of taking classes geared towards families. Starting as early as 18 months old, children and parents are encouraged to attend Blooma’s Yoga for Tots class together. Skills like flexibility, body awareness and confidence are introduced in this 45-minute class, which uses songs, stories and more to engage the little learners. Blooma also offers a 2-for-1 Vinyasa Flow class for parents with children over the age of seven who want to explore yoga simultaneously. Simply reserve your spot on your adult class pass and your child can tag along for free! $14 for kids, $18 for adults, packages also available. Yoga for Tots 10 a.m. Fridays. 3919 44th St.; 952.848.1111
Yoga for Kids
At Corepower kids will learn the value of listening as they connect with themselves and their peers in the adult-free Yoga for Kids class. “Kids live so in the moment that yoga comes really easily to them,” says instructor Ella Chissotti. Participants learn basic yoga postures and breathing techniques by acting out stories, practicing guided meditation and playing games like “Ring Around the Yogi” and “Yogi Says.” “The kids usually leave absolutely loving the class,” says Chissotti, who ends each hour-long session in a gratitude circle where each student has the opportunity to share something they’re thankful for. And, weather permitting, the class is often taught outside in the park. Corepower also offers a beginners heated yoga class (think 90-95 degrees) for adults at the same time as Yoga for Kids, so consider this your new play date destination. Chissotti says the warm, welcoming atmosphere keeps Edinans coming back. “Even if they’ve never been here before, we strive to create a real family environment,” she says. Ages 4-10. First visit is free, $13 single class, $50 for 5 classes. 2 p.m. Sundays. 7495 France Ave.; 952.835.9642
Yoga For Teens
Each fall, Southwest High School yoga students lose their class space to the wrestling team, so this year instructor Holly Schramm was in search of a new location that wouldn’t leave them practicing techniques on the cafeteria’s floor. Schramm approached Yoga House owner Michelle Lynn about borrowing studio space so they could continue their classes, which Lynn generously lent them. Schramm now instructs students from all area high schools twice weekly. The class begins and ends in meditation, and Schramm says she feels honored to be able to share her knowledge with the teens. “It’s all about acceptance and embracing our unique self. Life is a journey and the more tools we have to support us along the way, the better,” she says. Free on Wednesdays, $10 Fridays, $90 for a 10-class student pass. 3:30-4:30 p.m. Yoga House, 4402 France Ave. S.; 952.285.9642
Private Yoga
If an organized class just isn’t your style, or if you’d like to host a yoga-inspired get-together, private instructor Ingrid Soderberg is your go-to gal. Soderberg teaches classes by request in Edina schools and community centers, as well as for private and corporate functions. A typical class can last anywhere from 25 minutes to an hour, depending on the age of participants. The class covers topics like balance, conscious movement, methods of centering and more. Soderberg is quick to encourage parents to introduce their kids to yoga. “The benefits at any age are profound. So much of their lives are all about action and energetic movement. For a young child to learn that they have all the tools they need inside them to relax, focus inward and to become conscious of their movements and actions is priceless,” she says. $30-$50 per hour, depending on class size. 612.281.1981
