Yoga for Autism | Cadabams CDC
Yoga for Autism is more than gentle stretches—it is a science-backed tool that calms the nervous system, strengthens motor planning, and builds social confidence. At Cadabams CDC, our sensory yoga program is designed specifically for children on the Autism spectrum, combining evidence-based techniques with child-friendly fun. Whether your child is new to movement or already enjoys activity, this guide shows how yoga can become a joyful part of daily life.
Why Yoga Helps Kids with Autism
Proven Benefits: Motor Skills, Calm & Focus
- Motor Skills: Poses like Downward Dog and Warrior II build bilateral coordination and core strength.
- Emotional Regulation: Deep breathing and mindful movement lower cortisol levels, reducing meltras and improving mood.
- Executive Function: Following a visual sequence teaches planning, sequencing, and working memory.
- Sensory Integration: Joint compressions and proprioceptive input help children feel “centered” in their bodies.
How Sensory Yoga Targets ASD Challenges
Children with Autism often face sensory overload, poor body awareness, and difficulty transitioning between activities. Sensory yoga blends traditional poses with:
- Weighted blankets or sandbags during rest poses.
- Visual schedules and picture cards to reduce verbal instructions.
- Rhythmic music to cue transitions and maintain engagement.
- Tactile props (furry mats, textured balls) to satisfy sensory seeking.
Our Sensory Yoga Program
1:1 & Small-Group Classes
- 1:1 Sessions: Ideal for children who need personalized sensory diets.
- Small-Group Classes (max 4 kids): Encourages peer imitation and social communication under close supervision.
Certified Yoga & RBT Staff
Every class is co-led by:
- A Senior Occupational Therapist with 200-hour Yoga Teacher Training.
- A Registered Behavior Technician (RBT) who applies ABA principles to reinforce participation and reduce problem behavior.
Visual Schedules & Props
- Visual Schedules: Laminated picture cards showing each pose in order.
- Props: Bean bags for balance, scarves for breathing games, textured mats for tactile feedback.
Music & Movement Integration
- Rhythmic Drumming: Helps children maintain tempo during Sun Salutations.
- Animal Soundtrack: Encourages imaginative play during Animal Poses.
Signature Yoga Sensory Activities
Baby Cobra Pose – Core & Sensory Input
Lie on the belly, press forearms down, lift chest. This pose provides deep pressure to the torso and strengthens spinal extensors.
Tree Pose – Balance & Body Awareness
Stand on one leg, place the other foot on the inner thigh, hands to heart. Use a wall or partner for support to build vestibular tolerance.
Animal Poses – Social Imagination
- Cat-Cow: Encourage vocal “meow” and “moo”.
- Downward Dog to Cobra: Transition like a “snake” to improve sequencing.
Deep Breathing with Humming Bee
Sit cross-legged, inhale through the nose, exhale with a gentle “buzz”. The vibration soothes the vagus nerve and reduces anxiety.
Positive Affirmation Flow
Pair poses with simple affirmations:
- Warrior II: “I am strong.”
- Child’s Pose: “I am calm.”
What to Expect in a Session
Step 1: Sensory Check-In
Children choose a “feeling card” to express their current state. Therapists adjust lighting and music volume accordingly.
Step 2: Warm-Up Stretches
Gentle shoulder rolls, neck circles, and toe touches prepare joints and muscles.
Step 3: Core Pose Circuit
Rotate through 5–6 poses, spending 1–2 minutes each. Visual timers help children anticipate transitions.
Step 4: Calm-Down & Story Savasana
Lie on the mat with a weighted blanket while listening to a 3-minute guided story. This final step locks in relaxation and supports memory consolidation.
Meet Our Team
Senior Occupational Therapist & Yoga Instructor With 12 years of experience, she blends sensory integration principles with playful yoga to keep children engaged. Board-Certified Behavior Analyst Oversees data collection on IEP goals during yoga sessions and ensures behavior plans are followed.
Parents’ Corner
Home Practice Tips
- Keep sessions short (5–10 minutes) and consistent.
- Use the same playlist as class to cue familiarity.
- Celebrate small wins—every extra second in Tree Pose counts.
Printable Pose Cards
Download our free PDF of 12 pose cards, each with a QR code linking to a 30-second demo video.
30-Day Progress Tracker
Track posture, breathing, and mood daily. Share the tracker with Cadabams CDC therapists to refine goals at your next review.