It is important to be happy right? Absolutely! But it is unrealistic to be this way all of them time as life loves to throw a lot at us, good and bad. In light of Children’s Mental Health Week, we wanted to share our happiness toolbox to offer coping mechanisms for when the rough stuff comes our way, as well as to help bring in some joy into your life.

Whether it’s feeling your blood pressure rise during a long queue at the store, or experiencing overwhelming feelings of sadness and stress due to family trauma, we can all feel overloaded, particularly during the holidays. We understand, and have created some simple breathing techniques, mantras and yoga poses for those moments you need some inner peace.

A very special time of year is upon us, that brings families, loved ones and friends together, feelings of gratitude and hope and new beginnings. At least, in a perfect world that’s what the holidays are like. In reality, it’s also the most trying time of year for many and even painful due to life circumstances current and past. It’s why we are focusing a special Christmas Om:Pop series on “Resilience and Healing For the Holidays” with Family Support, Hammersmith & Fulham.

With the holiday season upon us, we are embracing the theme of resilience and giving yourself a break. When times get tough, one mindful method you can try to bring yourself some peace, is to give yourself a time-out!

The latest theme was “Brain Architecture,” where we began to think about ways in which we can help children to develop, by providing strong foundations and solid walls of positive experience and nurturing.

We want to share some of the amazing creators, products and companies we came across at the Mindful Living Show, as it can be so helpful to have products and organisations in your life that can help with sleep, relaxation, meditation, yoga, anxiety and stress. There were many great exhibitors and groups, but here are a few of our favourites.

We are so excited to invite you to Om:Pop Family Yoga + Brunch this March! The event will be held in the most beautiful space at Kindred in Hammersmith, London during their opening weekend on the 3rd March and we would love for London families to join us!

Recently, we’ve been hearing a lot from other parents on “comparison,” and how it can be so easy to fall into the trap of comparing your life to others. We want to help offer advice for breaking this cycle of thought and shift your brain to kinder, more positive ways of thinking. Thank you Karin for sharing your thoughts with all of us, and we hope you enjoy!

“Hello, is this your magical garden?” The story and the pictures are just adorable as you follow Ommie on her adventure encountering animals in the magical garden, and made it a lot of fun for Axel to do the poses along with the pages. He really loves cats, so got a big tickle out of seeing Cat Pose.

We love Yoga Pretzels as a mindful activity for children. Research shows that yoga benefits children greatly when it comes to easing stress, anxiety and pressure. It’s also a great activity they can do with friends and parents! Don’t take it from us, hear about it from them!