This article is one in a series of interviews with expats in Stavanger. Its purpose is to share with everyone what your fellow expats are doing and also to help advertise the businesses/services/events that these expats are involved in. If you would like to or know of a business/enterprise to be interviewed, feel free to contact us!
Interview with Karin Burke
from Yoga For Kids. Would you like to introduce your child to yoga? Or find out how yoga can benefit your child? Then read on to learn more!
Where are you from?
I am from North Germany and my husband is English. Our home is now in Hamburg.
What brought you to Stavanger?
Like so many expats here, my husband is working in the oil industry. Unexpectedly we had to leave Libya in February after having been there for more than 7 years. As a result we were transferred to Norway.
How long have you lived here?
We have been here just over 2 months.
Having lived in Stavanger for a few months, how do you find it here?
Overall I am positive about Stavanger; a pleasant, neat and orderly town. With all the amenities and lovely cycle paths around the lakes within a close proximity it is a pleasure to go out by bike. People here are very friendly, open and helpful. Also the great outdoors are right in front of the house.
What I find quite challenging and severe are the rain (have I encountered rain like this before? Don’t think so), the rules and regulations (parking fines) and, of course, the prices …
What got you started with Yoga for Kids?
It was one of those “coincidences” in life: at the same time I had to stop my favourite sport which was running because of knee problems, a yoga school started in our town. After experiencing the benefits of yoga on all levels myself I decided to become a yoga teacher for children. We have 3 kids ourselves and I have previously taught and enjoy working with children.
What are the benefits of yoga for kids?
Well, so much can be said about this subject so I will try to make it short.
Practicing yoga immediately rewards a child with improved physical and mental strength. Also, as the child moves into young adulthood and beyond, knowledge of yoga will provide a familiar framework within which to maintain body fitness.
I am practicing Hatha yoga with the children, incorporating physical poses, breathing techniques, meditation, concentration and, importantly, the art of relaxation. The holistic approach of yoga encourages body and mind awareness in the children. They enjoy the creativity and fun in a non competitive environment.
Yoga complements the natural joy of movement in children: yoga positions result in better flexibility, strengthening of muscles and joints and a better coordination. Practiced regularly yoga has a positive effect on blood circulation, internal organs and bodily functions.
The same goes for breathing exercises, which connect us with our mind and emotions. These exercises can help to improve sleep patterns, calm minds and reduce stress levels.
And finally, the relaxation that I teach as an integral part of my yoga sessions, does contain elements of PMR (Progressive Muscle Relaxation).
How old do the children have to be to attend your classes?
Children can start easily with 4 years, some are even younger. On the older side I teach groups with young teenagers.
Do the children enjoy the sessions? How has the feedback been?
I think we better ask the children! But, judging by the feedback I get from parents and children, I would say, yes they do.
How long have you been teaching yoga for children?
It is almost 3 years now that I am working as a yoga teacher for children. My main teaching was done during the past 2 years in Libya. I started with 2 groups in our compound and also gave yoga sessions as an extra curricular activity at various schools in Tripoli. In the end I had 8 groups per week, encompassing all ages from 3 ¾ to 11, all possible nationalities and even a Libyan girls group.
How can you be contacted?
I can be contacted by email or phone 410 748 15. The website is currently in progress.
How much are the course fees?
I charge NOK 110 per child, per session. NOK 90 for a second child of a family. At present the maximum group size is 4 – 5 children (normally 6). A session lasts 60 minutes, for little yogis (4 yrs) approx. 45 min.
Any additional information you would like to add?
In addition to yoga for kids, I am a registered LLC practitioner for ‘Yoga for the special child’.
This is safe and gentle yoga therapy based on the Sonia Sumar method for babies and children with special needs like cerebral palsy, hemiplegia, DS, autism and other physical and developmental difficulties.
Sessions take place on a 1 to 1 basis.
Thank you for your time, Karin and all the best!
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About Cynthia Myrnes
Cynthia is a Singaporean who has been living in Stavanger since Feb 2008 with her Norwegian husband. She works as a physiotherapist here and also owns her own petsitting service, Stavanger Petsitter, for the residents of Stavanger. In addition, she manages the Stavanger International Moms group. She loves hanging out with friends, spending time with animals, travelling and watersports such as scuba diving and wake boarding. Most of all, she is enjoying the experience of being a first time mom!
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