Yoga for kids. Traditional English story: Twas the night before xmas.

Twas the night before Xmas ((Kids yoga sequence). Introduction: Discuss words, “joy” and “peace” and what it means. Place wooden letters out spelling words together. With a pretend candle breathe in and then blow out together. Begin story and acting out with yoga poses. ‘‘Twas the night before Christmas, when all through the house (Anjali Mudrâ) not a creature was stirring, not even a mouse (Child’s pose). The stockings were hung with care (Tree pose) in hopes that Santa soon would be there. The children were nestled all snug in their beds (Inverted table top) (Rock and roll pose). When out on the lawn arose such a clatter, I sprang from my bed (mountain pose) to see what was the matter (Boat pose to standing). Away to the window I flew like a flash, tore open the shutter, and threw up the sash (Dancer pose). Then what to my wonder did I see but a miniature sleigh (Bow pose) and eight tiny reindeer (dancing Ganesha). With a little old driver, I knew it was Santa. Then his reindeers they came and he whistled and shouted and called them by name. “Now ‘Dancer’ (Dancer pose), Prancer and Vixen (downward dog) To the top of the wall, now dash away, dash away, dash away all!” (Donkey kicks). To the top of the porch, to the top of the wall, now dash away dash away, dash away all! (Warrior poses). As dry leaves flew to the sky (Extended bird pose). So up to the housetop the reindeer they flew with a sleigh full of toys - and Santa, too. (Warrior 3). And then in a flash Santa came down to the roof with a bundle of toys from a pack on his back. He has a little round belly that shock when he laughed. He filled all the stockings for the good girls and boys (Extended side ankle pose). Stocking- shoulder stand. With a wink of his eye (Gyan Mudra and around eyes). He then sprang to his sleigh (Boat pose). I heard him exclaim as the reindeers flew high (Locust pose) to (Hero pose). But I heard him exclaim, ere they drove out of sight, “Happy Christmas to all, and to all a good-night””(Easy sitting pose). End will a peaceful mantra of loving kindness to all those around us and for ourselves. “May you be peaceful, may you be kind” and “may I be peaceful, may I be kind”. Tracey Maclay Yogamotorskills.com