Zelmaré Viljoen, a renowned yoga therapist, meditation facilitator, and author, has stressed on the importance of daily physical activity for young children, particularly those with special needs, at the ongoing 15th annual Sharjah Children’s Reading Festival (SCRF).

Speaking on ‘Enhancing Development Through Sports Therapy for Children with Special Needs’, Viljoen, whose insights draw partly from her experiences with her son who is on the autistic spectrum, highlighted the profound benefits of yoga and mindfulness in managing mood and emotional responses effectively.

“Engaging in sports not only helps balance emotions but also enhances the ability to handle life’s challenges more adeptly. It’s essential that we instill these values early in children’s lives,” Viljoen noted during the talk, moderated by Tamreez Inam.

Viljoen also addressed the modern challenges posed by technology, cautioning against its excessive use. “While technology is undeniably our future, it often disconnects us from our physical selves and our emotional states. Rather than falling into the trap of digital dopamine rushes, children can achieve a natural and healthier high through physical activities like yoga or playing sports, where they experience the release of endorphins and neurotransmitters like dopamine and serotonin,” she explained.

“On average, children should play for at least two hours everyday,” she added.  

In her ongoing commitment to fostering physical and mental wellness, Viljoen has written a do-along storybook that introduces the power of mindfulness to both children and their caretakers. The book’s yoga postures not only help alleviate boredom but also uplift moods and strengthen familial bonds.

The Sharjah Children’s Reading Festival (SCRF), hosted at the Expo Centre Sharjah until May 12, is a beacon of cultural and educational activities. This year, the festival boasts over 1,500 activities ranging from workshops and concerts to cultural events and panel discussions, celebrating literary creativity across all age groups.

For attendees eager to explore the rich array of programs, detailed schedules and agendas are available at www.scrf.ae or on the SCRF app, ensuring a vibrant and enriching experience for all visitors.