Introduction to (SKY)
Simplified Kundalini Yoga (SKY) is a holistic yoga system rooted in scientific principles and logical reasoning, developed by Shri Vethathiri Maharishi (1911-2006). This comprehensive approach aims to promote individual peace and global harmony.
In 1958, Shri Vethathiri Maharishi established the World Community Service Centre (WCSC) to spread peace and unity worldwide. The organization's mission is to empower individuals to live in harmony with themselves, their families, and society through the practice of SKY Yoga.
SKY Yoga encompasses four primary aspects:
- Yoga Exercises: Physical postures and practices to cultivate physical, mental, and emotional well-being.
- Meditation Practices: Techniques to quiet the mind, focus awareness, and connect with inner self.
- Value Education: Learning and integrating values, ethics, and principles to guide personal growth and relationships.
- Practical Application: Incorporating SKY Yoga principles into daily life to transform personality, develop self-awareness, and engage in meaningful service to oneself, family, and society.
By embracing SKY Yoga, individuals can experience personal growth, improved relationships, and a deeper sense of purpose, ultimately contributing to a more harmonious world.
about the program
Simplified Kundalini Yoga’s (SKY) YogaBears program is offered to kids in the 7 - 12 years age range.
It trains them in Yoga Exercises, Meditation and Values to enrich the Body, Mind and Self.
According to a CDC stat from the US Government around 32.5% of the kids are affected by mental health challenges like ADHD or Anxiety or Depression or some sort of Behavioral issue.
We believe that the Program can help kids grow into strong and healthy individuals while enjoying their childhood and avoid mental health challenges.
The program has 5 levels where the kids complete each level over a period of 1 year by going through a structured curriculum that facilitates progressive learning and practice
the process
Year-round virtual classes (Sep - May)
on Saturdays for an hour
A SKYYogaBears student will enroll into Level 1 and progressively move up to higher levels (upto Level 5) every year.
Each level imparts a structured learning for the body and mind through progressively structured yoga exercises, meditation and value based education.
Sat 9:30 am PST / 11:30 am CST / 12:30 pm EST (1 hr)
Coaching
Following the weekend learning on saturdays the kids participate in practice groups where the kids are coached in habit setting to inculcate the practices into their daily routine. The practice groups are led by adult teachers and older kids that have graduated out of prior courses.
Practice Sessions: Mon - Fri (15 mins)
4 pm PST / 6 pm CST / 7 pm EST
7 pm PST / 9 pm CST / 10 pm EST
LITTLE MASTER CREDENTIAL
(after level 5 completion)
benefits
Yoga exercises are generally proven to develop immunity.
Meditation when developed as a habit is proven to reduce stress and increase focus.
Values when inculcated help develop a healthy personality in a child and set them up for life long success and happiness.
SKY YogaBears lays a strong foundation for children at the age of 7 to 12 years for their smooth transition into teenage.
UPCOMING COURSES
questions?
For the academic year beginning Sep 2024 we are offering Levels 1 and 2. For questions Please read our FAQ’s or join our whatsapp group. To register click on icon below:
Please read our FAQ and / or
Click join.yogabears.org to join our WhatsApp group and interact with our course coordinators.
Faq’s
Are there any alternative timings available for these classes?
Q1:
A1:
Our live classes are currently scheduled from 12:30-1:30pm EST, a time carefully chosen to accommodate students across various North American time zones. As we expand our team of instructors,we may be able to offer additional time slots in the future.
Can I enroll the child below 7 years of age, or would you suggest waiting until the child turns 7?
Q2:
Currently, our SKY Yoga Bears program caters to children aged 7 and above. However, we believe that introducing SKY Yoga at a younger age can be incredibly beneficial, as it sparks a lifelong passion for learning and growth. If your child is under 7 years old, please fill out the following form https://forms.gle/jGajrmxAPFHohM298. Your responses will help us to assess their developmental readiness.
A2:
Does the SKY Yoga Bears program have techniques to help address Asthma and breathing issues?
Q3:
A3:
Breathing techniques are a fundamental component of the SKY Yoga Bears program, playing a crucial role in helping children develop a strong foundation in yoga and mindfulness practices.
Yogiraj Vethathiri Maharishi emphasized on the importance of proper breath control, relaxation and stress management to manage Asthma symptoms. While these techniques may not cure Asthma, these might be able to help manage the condition as some of our students have observed, in addition to maintaining their overall wellbeing.
Q4:
At which level do teenagers begin their SKY Yoga journey?
A4:
Regardless of age, all new students begin with our Level 1 program, which provides a foundational understanding of SKY Yoga's core principles.
To address the unique developmental needs of children at various ages, we offer age-appropriate sections within each level (Beginner, Intermediate, and Advanced). This structure allows us to tailor our teaching approach to meet the distinct requirements of each age group, ensuring a supportive and engaging learning environment.
Q5:
Would students receive class recordings ?
Be used as a promotional video for the website. These recordings are the property of SKY Yoga Bears and will neither be shared with students, nor with people outside the organization.
A5:
Q6:
Will previously taught lessons be revised?
The first 15 minutes of each class will feature a comprehensive recap of the previous session, ensuring you're caught up and ready to dive into the new material.
A6:
What is covered in the SKY Yoga Bears program, in levels 1 through 5?
Q7:
A7:
SKY Yoga Bear’s year-around yoga and value education program for children, is structured based on a comprehensive curriculum for progressive learning and practice of life skills. We facilitate their path of success, with clarity on what they want to achieve and how; to shine in their own way, gaining confidence and courage.
Once they enroll at age 7, they have the advantage to travel with us for the next 5 years through Level 1 to 5, until they are 12; Our mentors empower them with the necessary knowledge and tools, preparing them for a smooth transition into teenhood, the most important phase of life. Once they are 12 and have completed all our 5 levels; they will be identified as YoungMasters (honored with the award) and will have the opportunity to assist the main master in one of our classrooms, teaching exercises and help with assignments. They will be entitled to receive the volunteer certificate and earn credits for the same.
Here is a bird’s-eye view of what is covered in the levels from 1 through 5:
*Basic tenets on the Philosophies of Simplified Kundalini Yoga (SKY)
* Every class is carefully planned with interactive activities, fun games and takeaways to work through
Theories
- Understanding Self as an union of Body, Mind and Soul- What? with scientific substances and enquiry; and How? To care, maintain and grow better
- Implications of Better Self- on one’s health and immunity, family roles, modeling behaviors for positive social circle
- Acknowledging individuals as unique and special; Contribute to the community- shine in their own way.
- Skills to grow as a leader- Power and responsibility to positively impact the world for peace
Practices
- SKY exercises, Pranayama (Breathing practices), Asanas, Mudras and Sun Salutation
- Basic meditation techniques for mind focus and increase your energy levels to overcome physical and mental fatigue
- Techniques to increase your physical and mental health; concentration and memory
- Self Management Skills- Introspection practices to increase one’s efficiency; time and stress management; handling peer pressure
Our program is holistically designed to be process oriented and not product oriented. In other words, the focus is more on the journey, learning and growth, rather than just the end result.
Q8:
Please provide a link to register for the SKY Yoga Bears program
A8:
Please visit the following link to register for the year-long program:
https://www.zeffy.com/en-US/ticketing/56e19d8a-ae6a-4ee5-8422-ef5c8df56ffd.
Our Testimonials
#01
My child had an absolute blast at the kids' yoga session hosted by SKY Yoga! They thoroughly enjoyed every aspect of the course and practice session, gaining valuable skills to cultivate calmness and focus. I'm grateful to all the volunteers who made this experience possible - thank you for your dedication and hard work!
Our Testimonials
#02
I am a fellow SKY Yoga practitioner, and I've struggled to establish a consistent daily practice. However, this course has been a game-changer for my child, helping them develop a daily yoga routine. I am thankful to all the volunteers who contributed to this positive impact - your efforts have made a significant difference in our lives!
#03
My daughter has greatly benefited from this platform, mastering simplified physical exercises with ease. She has developed a keen interest in SKY Yoga and has made it a regular part of her routine. I extend my sincerest thanks to all the volunteers who made this possible . May your selfless efforts be rewarded - Vazhga Vazhamudan!
#04
Both of my children thoroughly enjoyed and benefited from SKY Yoga, particularly appreciating the additional practice sessions that reinforced their Saturday learnings. The valuable stories shared also encouraged critical thinking. We're deeply grateful to all the Masters who contribute in countless ways, big and small - thank you from the bottom of our hearts for your dedication and guidance.
Our Testimonials
#05
The program was highly beneficial for my kids! My son thoroughly enjoyed the engaging games, daily practice, and interactive sessions. My 5-year-old daughter, who has prior yoga experience, also participated and loved the exercises. However, she found the theoretical aspects challenging to comprehend. To enhance the program's appeal and engagement for younger children, I suggest striking a balance between theory and practice, perhaps increasing the exercise components and simplifying the theoretical explanations. This would make the program even more enjoyable and accessible for kids!
Our Testimonials
#06
I am deeply grateful for the invaluable SKY Yoga Bears program, which has profoundly benefited our little yogis. Our dedicated teachers have skillfully introduced our great Guru Maharishi's SKY Yoga practices, offering a multitude of benefits for children. The live sessions have taught them techniques to calm their bodies and connect with themselves in remarkable ways.
My granddaughter thoroughly enjoyed the simplified exercises and uplifting stories with moral values, learning about unity, hard work, love, compassion, and the benefits of blessings. She now reads Value Education children's books from WCSC and practices Divine Protection and Auto Suggestion for herself and friends. She has matured and applies what she learned, helping around the house and showing reduced anxiety and stress.
SKY Yoga has provided a non-competitive, feel-good experience for my granddaughter, improving her communication and confidence. I believe this program has planted a seed in many children that will grow into something strong and beautiful. Thank you to our SKY Masters and salutations to our Guru.