The Dailey Method

It's our weekly "Worth a Visit" series! Have an idea you'd like to submit? The only requirements are that it must be in the Ottawa region and kid-friendly! Email Misty at kidsinthecapital@gmail.com

I think we can all agree that exercise is important and if you want to read more about lifting weights, check out this fabulous article about lifting more than babies (Moms in the Weight Room). Sometimes, though, a group exercise class is the kind of motivation we need to get out of the house. A room full of people all working towards the same goal, the pump-you-up music, the camaraderie, the schedule. There's a new studio in the Glebe that provides all that and more.

The Dailey Method is a group exercise class that combines barre work with moves from yoga, pilates, and core conditioning. During the hour-long class you'll work on all the major muscles groups using light weights, the bar, balls, and your body weight. It's an incredible workout with a focus on proper alignment and stretching. The Dailey Method is located in the Glebe and offers classes 7 days a week. This workout is appropriate for any fitness level including pregnant women. 

The greatest part is that the room next to the bright studio is a childcare room. Along with listing the class schedule online, they also list the times that childcare is available (free of charge to members and $5 for drop-ins). So if the only time you can make a class is when you have your little one with you it's no problem. They play while you get in a workout. You'll both have a great time!

If you've never done a barre class before, I urge you to try it out. It is an amazing workout and a nice change if you've been doing the same thing for a while. Your body will thank you.

Creating Tranquility in Children's Lives

by Amanda Integration of yoga into a child’s life allows for a sense of calmness and relaxation, coupled with environmental awareness and tools for personal stress management.  Children’s yoga classes foster a sharing and caring environment and bring honour and thankfulness for their self, family and surroundings.  Yoga classes encourage kids to move their bodies, create calmness in their little minds and allows their spirits to soar.

Here are some fun yoga postures you can do with your kids at home or at the local park!

 Downward Dog (Mommy Dog)

(Adho Mukha Svanasana)

Begin on all fours (table position) distributing equal weight in your hands while spreading the fingers. Gently lift your hips towards the sky, as your press your heels deep down into the earth.  Keep the fingers spread and hands pressed evenly into the ground as you create a V shape with your body.

Preschoolers enjoy shaking their “tail” in this position as they bark like a Mommy Dog.

Bound Angle (Butterfly)

(Baddha Konasana)

Begin in a comfortable seated position and bring your knees in close to your chest. Allow your knees to slowly drop to the side, towards the earth. Your hips should stay on the floor, with a tall spine.  Press the souls of your feet together.

Move your legs and/or arms in a fluttering motion so your butterfly can fly high in the sky!

Upward Dog (Baby Dog)

(Urdhva Mukha Svanasana)

Begin on your stomach with your chin resting on the floor, bringing your hands in close to your chest. Spread your fingers and press your palms into the floor.  Pressing the feet into the floor and begin to lift your chest and shoulders off the floor.  Lengthen your arms and press the crown of your head towards the sky. Open up your chest, pressing your shoulder blades together. Toddlers and Preschoolers may want to bark and make noise like a little puppy!

Child’s Pose (Sleeping Bunny)

(Balasana) 

Begin in a kneeling position, with your buttocks on the heels of your feet.  Allow your upper body to fold forward reaching towards the earth.  Your forehead drops towards the floor, and your hips reach back towards your heels.  Lengthen the spine as your breath dances throughout your body.  Place your hands on the floor next to your body.  Another option that the children enjoy is a variation (as shown in picture) with the arms extended in front. This is a great relaxation pose. 

 Amanda is mom to Dominic, 2 months, and can be found blogging about life, product reviews & giveaways at Namaste Mommy, PTPA Panel of Moms & Tools for Schools.  When not feeding and changing diapers Amanda is busy with her company DeGrace Energetics & Little Lotus.