YOGA'S benefits are well documented for adults - but now children as young as three are being encouraged to learn the basics...

CHILDREN'S yoga teacher Beverley Hughes doesn't need convincing of the benefits to be gained from practising the ancient art.

She has been a convert for the past three years and finds it a great way to stay fit and unwind after work.

Beverley, 23, from Hobb Lane, Hedge End, said: "I used to go to classes myself but now I practise at home - it's great for relaxing and when I started doing Ashtanga yoga I lost about two stone."

By day Beverley works with children at Charlton House pre-school in Midanbury - and she decided to investigate whether yoga classes for youngsters were available.

"I went on the Internet and I found out about Yogabugs and signed up to be trained so I could teach children," she said.

"Often now they find when children are starting school and are in the reception class, they are not as flexible as you would expect them to be.

"Yoga can help them become more supple," she said.

"With so much in the news about child obesity, it is important for them to exercise.

"In my classes, I will also be promoting healthy eating for children."

During the 45-minute class, the youngsters, aged from three to seven, will warm up before being taken on an imaginary journey to the jungle or the ocean - and the class will finish with some meditation.

"Yoga can even help with physical things like constipation. I can advise parents on movements they can practise at home with their children," she said.

Beverley is going to run classes at the Wildern School arts centre and the Rainbow Centre in Bishop's Waltham. For more details contact her on 07762 305061 or e-mail her at petaldust8@hotmail.com

BENEFITS OF YOGA FOR CHILDREN:

Relaxation

Helping develop balance and co-ordination skills

Strengthening bones

Helping breathing

Building a positive image and self esteem

Making you supple