“kids as young as three cope with the stress of modern life”

Kids as young as three are taught to relax

22 Jan 2013

Children are learning how to cope with the stresses and strains of busy schedules Relaxation classes are being held to help kids as young as three cope with the stress of modern life.

The sessions aim to help school children rid themselves of ‘negative energy’.

Children are also encouraged to learn ‘self soothe’ techniques through massage and visualising fairytales during the hour-long classes.

Run by sisters Nicola Lamb and Cheryl Williams at the Lev Inspire centre in Levenshulme, the aim is to help children cope with the stress of school and busy schedules. It is the first time the Relax Kids classes have been held in Manchester.

Former mental health worker and mum-of-one Nicola, 35, from Heaton Norris, Stockport, said: “I had been looking for ways to prevent children getting mental health problems and this is a way of doing that without using medication.

“Kids today are so busy they don’t get time out, rushing around in and out of school and rates of mental health illnesses amongst children are so much higher.

“A lot of teenagers also turn to drink or drugs nowadays, because they can’t cope with emotions. “These classes are about giving children life skills to go inside themselves and feel safe and strong.”

Chill factor: Cheryl, left, and Nicola

Cheryl, a mum-of-two and former residential care worker from Levenshulme, said: “Having worked in children’s homes I’ve seen so many young people with self esteem issues.

“Since I’ve trained in this technique I’ve really noticed the effect it has on my daughter’s behaviour and now we hope to help others.” The pair hope to expand into schools in Greater Manchester and also plan to run classes for parents and babies.

The classes will take place every week at Lev Inspire on Stockport Road, Levenshulme, costing £4 per child. Go to www.relaxkids.com for more details.

Credit : By Amy Glendinning Manchester Evening News