Zen Garden Health Coaching and Yoga Studio will launch its first children’s yoga series, Pretzel Yoga, on July 19. Owner Edit Babboni, a yoga teacher and certified health coach and the mother of two “mini-yogis,” says the five-session series, designed for children ages 5 to 9, is much-needed in the upper Westchester area.

“Yoga means union, and the practice focuses on the body-mind-spirit connection,” she says. “Today’s busy world is taking a toll not just on us adults, but on our children as well. This union is falling apart as a result of information overload and competitiveness in school and sports, among other things.” Because children encounter emotional, social and physical challenges or conflicts on a daily basis, she says, a dedicated and intentional yoga practice that includes breathing techniques, behavioral guidelines and physical postures can be very valuable to them. “Children explore the poses and learn about their physical abilities by never worrying about being wrong,” she explains.

Besides the poses, Babboni also incorporates teaching self-discipline and breathing, the pillars of yoga. Other benefits include increased self-confidence, concentration, balance and coordination, and a stronger mind and body, she says.

Classes will be held in the studio or outside on the grass, weather permitting, on consecutive Tuesdays—July 19 and 26, and August 2, 9 and 16—from 4 to 4:45 p.m. The program fee is $150. Space is limited. RSVP by July 15 by calling 917.721.2529 or emailing [email protected].