A NEW phenomenon has caught on at a Garelochhead-based youth project - with up to 14 children taking part in weekly yoga sessions.

Route 81 has been running Teenyoga classes at Centre 81 in the village thanks to the Argyll and Bute Community Health Partnership’s Health and Wellbeing Fund.

Seven sessions have been delivered by local teacher Veronica Ferguson, who aimed the classes at those about to begin their prelims to provide tools and techniques to combat stress.

Though led by Route 81, the project is a partnership, also involving Helensburgh and Lomond Young Carers and the Cove and Kilcreggan Youth Cafe.

One young participant said: “Participating in Teenyoga helps us to relax with the everyday stress as a teen today. It gives us space to breathe.”

Kirsty Mason, 18, a student on placement at Route 81, said: “The biggest surprise for me participating in Teenyoga with the other young people was the effect the relaxation session at the end had on everyone.

“It was very calming and everyone, including me, didn’t want that bit to end!”

Over the seven weeks Veronica has shared the philosophy of yoga, and discussed how learning to take care of themselves and making positive choices can lead to a more fulfilled life.

Veronica told the Advertiser: “There are many studies on the benefits of yoga, but particularly on teenagers who are exposed to many social pressures and uncertainties.

“We want to let them experience some relaxing, breathing and de stressing techniques, basic mindfulness and meditation and some physical postures to engage and strengthen the body.”

Michelle MacDonald, youth work manager said that the sessions had “relieved anger”, “built up self confidence” and “challenged them positively.”

She said: “All 14 of the young people felt their health had benefitted from Teenyoga and that they were now equipped with a tool which they could use to combat the stress in their everyday life.

“All of the participants have requested Teenyoga continues as part of the Youth Programme and a demand from younger members for a second group is now being explored.”

The success of the pilot project will be used as evidence for Route 81 to apply for funding so that the class be integrated into the project’s programme of regular youth activities.