Yoga and Meditation for Kids

1. Being a child again - this shifts the mindset and makes you more playful, more patient, more tolerant. Don't be too serious. Kids will behave differently from adults
2. Story telling - kids have a short attention span and story telling keeps them engaged. e.g. Tree Pose "imagine yourself to be a tall mighty tree....reaching towards the sun while your roots are firmly planted on mother earth."
3. Plan B - if the set class doesn't work, have an alternate plan on hand. If the Vinyasa part is boring them, resort to Partner Yoga.
4. Teach the principles of Yoga - games and yoga play are fun, but keep them grounded on what yoga is, why and benefits. If need be, stop the session to explain something important
5. No rush - kids are hyper. Make the yoga class slow so that they could also observe the movement. Don't rush anything. Start the class with slow breathing
6. Be patient - some kids will get it fast, others will be slow. Kids will be fidgety and will easily be distracted by someone coming in, a sound from the outside, an itch, etc. Be patient

1. Come on time - we start on time so come on time. This is a habit that should be instilled in new yogins
2. No snacking an hour before - with physical and breathing exercises, the stomach has to be empty
3. Washroom/Water - drink water and go to the washroom before class so there is no disruption

4 kids including a 5-year old, KG and Kat attended the first dry run. I timed it exactly one hour and was able to fit the entire planned program. But it was challenging. This was the first time I ever taught kids yoga. They easily get distracted by a noise, by what the other person is doing, and often ask for a water break. Overall, I feel that it was a good start for them as I got them established on the 3 foundational legs of yoga - movement, breath and mindfulness. It's easy to introduce asana later on that can challenge them.

The first class requires time for introduction of new concepts - the 3 best friends, how to breathe properly, movement + breath + mindfulness.

1. Introduction - I'm Gigit, one hour class, congrats for being productive during summer break, myths on FB and Instagram
2. What is Yoga? - technique that makes us happy, strong, healthy, and be good in school. We achieve this by using very simple methods - movement of the body, controlled breathing and focused attention. That's it. That's yoga. It has nothing to do with the difficult poses people post online.
3. Why Yoga? - strong, happy, full of energy, you don't get sick, magical things happen

May 27: Seth, Judiel, Yuta, me, Marika, Gabby, Yumari
4. Movement - safety edge, don't push it, Vinyasa w/o breath, w/o mindfulness
5. Breathing - on the first class, teach them how to breathe properly - full chest, full belly, holding (upper back breathing is later on). Then explain nose breathing, slow breathing, deep breathing, steady breathing, inflating full and exhaling empty, practice same Vinyasa with breathing
6. Mindfulness - 3 friends (most important), most difficult, practice counting until it fails, magical things, practice same Vinyasa with breathing + mindfulness
7. Pranayama - 10 mins of different kinds of pranayama, one per day. eg. Ujjayi breathing, Nadi shodan, Kapalbhati, Chandra/Surya bhedan, Brahmari, Sitali + Lion's breath
8. Full Vinyasa with Ujjayi breathing - 10 mins
9. Partner Yoga - Boat, one partner yoga pose only. We don't want to make this too much fun
10. Meditation - 10 mins, Counting, one type per day ,(Counting, Anapana, Vipassana, Sambhavi, Kumbhaka, Nada)
11. Gratitude - 5 mins, family, home, food, friends

For this 2nd class, no more introduction. We go straight to warming up the lungs with 3 mins full Ujjayi breathing (chest + belly), 1 min body movement, 5 mins body stretching, semi Surya Namaster A&B (they got bored so I switched quick to partner yoga), partner yoga (chair, leaning back), Nadi Shodan, Counting Meditation, Magic (disappearing the coin), Gratitude

May 28: xxx, Gabby, xxx, me, Yuta, Judiel, Marika

1. Breathing warm up - 3 mins, full chest, full belly, 1 sec holding (upper back breathing is later on) - nose breathing, slow breathing, deep breathing, steady breathing, inflating full and exhaling empty
2. Movement - 2 mins, hovering, shadow boxing, full body movement, limbering
3. Stretching - 5 mins, full body stretching
4. Asana - semi Surya as they got bored with this, Tree pose, Glut stretch
5. Partner yoga - chair facing each other and leaning back
6. Nadi Shodan breathing - 5 mins, (Ujjayi breathing, Nadi shodan, Kapalbhati, Chandra/Surya bhedan, Brahmari, Sitali + Lion's breath)
7. Magic - through body relaxation, full breathing, and awareness on the breath, the coin disappears!
8. Counting Meditation - 10 mins, one type per day (Counting, Anapana, Vipassana, Sambhavi, Kumbhaka, Nada)
9. Gratitude - being alive, being healthy being able to play

Warming up the lungs with 3 mins full Ujjayi breathing (chest + belly), 1 min body movement, 5 mins body stretching, cat and cow/downward dog/seated poses, partner yoga (chair, leaning back), Kapalbhati, Magic Meditation (.25 coin appears), Gratitude

1. Breathing warm up - 3 mins, full chest, full belly, 1 sec holding (upper back breathing is later on) - nose breathing, slow breathing, deep breathing, steady breathing, inflating full and exhaling empty
2. Movement - 2 mins, hovering, shadow boxing, full body movement, limbering
3. Stretching - 5 mins, full body stretching
4. Group Pose - Tree
5. Cat / Cow - 10 mins, showing round back vs straight back, Downward Dog, Seated Poses (twist, knee pointed up)
6. Partner yoga - chair, back to back
Partner Yoga
When the kids become harder to control, or when they get bored or restless, my Plan B is to break the class into Partner Yoga - just one fun pose to get their attention again.




Boat


Child's Pose

Plank

Forward Bend

Chair

Leaning Back

Tree
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7. Kapalbhati breathing - 5 mins, (Ujjayi breathing, Nadi shodan, Kapalbhati, Chandra/Surya bhedan, Brahmari, Sitali + Lion's breath)
8. Magic - through body relaxation, full breathing, and awareness on the breath, the .25 cent coin appears!
9. Anapana Meditation - NONE, no time left, 10 mins, one type per day (Counting, Anapana, Vipassana, Sambhavi, Kumbhaka, Nada)
10. Gratitude - Loving Family: Having parents, siblings, and extended family who care for and support

Class 3 was tough. They were all over the place, talking, not listening, everybody lining up in the washroom (while classes are on-going), etc.

For Today:
Warming up the lungs with 3 mins full Ujjayi breathing (chest + belly), 1 min body movement, 5 mins body stretching, one-legged poses, partner yoga (back-to-back forward bend), Kapalbhati, Magic Meditation (P 10 coin re-appears), Tree Pose Meditation (on who gets the coin), Gratitude

May 30: Garland circle

1. Breathing warm up - same breathing warm up, followed by a new Pranayama (below)
2. Chandra/Surya bhedan breathing - NOT DONE, 5 mins, (Ujjayi breathing, Nadi shodan, Kapalbhati, Chandra/Surya bhedan, Brahmari, Sitali + Lion's breath)
3. Full body movement - 2 mins, hovering, shadow boxing, full body movement, limbering
4. Stretching - 5 mins, full body stretching
5. Group Pose - Mandala

6. Seated Poses - NOT DONE, 10 mins, more...knees on the side, forward
7. Partner yoga - forward bend, back to back

8. Magic - through body relaxation, full breathing, and awareness on the breath, the PHP 10 reappears! Whoever stood on one leg longest gets to keep the P10 coin
9. Anapana Meditation - NOT DONE, 10 mins, one type per day (Counting, Anapana, Vipassana, Sambhavi, Kumbhaka, Nada)
10. Gratitude - Basic Needs
    Home: Having a safe and comfortable place to live
    Food and Clean Water: Having nutritious meals and clean water to drink
    Clothing: Having clothes to wear for different activities

Class 4 was challenging. I had to keep their interest by games - Mandala, Magic, PHP 10 reward by Tree Pose, etc. Without these games, it was like herding cats.

For Today:
Warming up the lungs with 3 mins full Ujjayi breathing (chest + belly), 1 min body movement, 5 mins body stretching, Seated Twist Mandala group asana, Chandra/Surya bhedan pranayama, Seated Seesaw partner yoga, Levitation magic meditation, Hobbies gratitude

1. Breathing warm up - same breathing warm up, followed by a new Pranayama (below)
2. Chandra/Surya bhedan breathing - 5 mins, (Ujjayi breathing, Nadi shodan, Kapalbhati, Chandra/Surya bhedan, Brahmari, Sitali + Lion's breath)
3. Full body movement - 2 mins, hovering, shadow boxing, full body movement, limbering
4. Stretching - 5 mins, full body stretching
5. Group Pose - Seated Twist Mandala mandala, right and left

6. Partner yoga - Seated Seesaw, facing each other

7. Magic - Levitating an object after 20 mins of body relaxation, full breathing, and awareness on the breath
8. Gratitude - Everyday Joys
   Fun and Play: Having time for play and activities they enjoy
   Favorite Hobbies: Being able to engage in hobbies like reading, drawing, playing games, or building things
   Moments of Happiness: Experiencing small, everyday moments of joy, laughter, and love

Class 5 was challenging despite the levitation.

For Today:
Warming up the lungs with 3 mins full Ujjayi breathing (chest + belly), 1 min body movement, 5 mins body stretching, Back Bend asanas, Brahmari pranayama, Child pose / Back bend partner yoga, Levitation magic meditation from doing Brahmari, Nature gratitude

1. Breathing warm up - same breathing warm up, followed by a new Pranayama (below)
2. Brahmari breathing - 5 mins, (Ujjayi breathing, Nadi shodan, Kapalbhati, Chandra/Surya bhedan, Brahmari, Sitali + Lion's breath)
3. Full body movement - 2 mins, hovering, shadow boxing, full body movement, limbering
4. Stretching - 5 mins, full body stretching
5. Back Bend asana - 10 mins

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6. Partner yoga - Child Pose / Back Bend

7. Anapana Meditation - 10 mins, one type per day (Counting, Anapana, Vipassana, Sambhavi, Kumbhaka, Nada)
8. Magic - Levitating an object after 10 mins of body relaxation, Brahmari, and awareness on the breath
9. Gratitude - Beautiful nature
   Sunshine, rain, trees, animals - the natural world is full of wonder. Kids can appreciate spending time outdoors and experiencing the beauty of nature.

Class 6 was still about levitation but they were not as excited as the disappearing coin.

For Today:
Warming up the lungs with 3 mins full Ujjayi breathing (chest + belly), 1 min body movement, 5 mins body stretching, Wide Legged asanas, Sitali + Lion's breath pranayama, Boat partner yoga, Disappearing Coin magic meditation from doing Sitali + Lion's breath, Best Friend gratitude

1. Breathing warm up - same breathing warm up, followed by a new Pranayama (below)
2. Sitali + Lion's breath breathing - 5 mins, (Ujjayi breathing, Nadi shodan, Kapalbhati, Chandra/Surya bhedan, Brahmari, Sitali + Lion's breath)
3. Full body movement - 2 mins, hovering, shadow boxing, full body movement, limbering
4. Stretching - 5 mins, full body stretching
5. Wide Legged asana - 10 mins

6. Partner yoga - Boat

7. Anapana Meditation - 10 mins, one type per day (Counting, Anapana, Vipassana, Sambhavi, Kumbhaka, Nada)
8. Magic - Disappearing Coin after 10 mins of body relaxation, Sitali + Lion's breath, and awareness on the breath
9. Gratitude - Best Friend
   • you have someone to play with
   • if you are sad, there is someone to cheer you up
   • when you need to talk to someone, your best friend is there
   • you're not alone. You and your best friend look out for each other
   • you have someone who understands you
   • there is someone you trust who can tell you, you are wrong
   • there is someone you can study with and help you with your homework

Recap
Class 7 had 8 kids and they were behaving like a beehive. The only thing that excited them was Boat partner yoga and the Magic (disappearing coin in a box).

For Today:
Warming up the lungs with 3 mins full Ujjayi breathing (chest + belly), 1 min body movement, 5 mins body stretching, Standing asanas, Bhastrika pranayama, Leaning Back partner yoga, (not done) Reappearing Coin magic meditation from doing Ujjayi breath, (not used) Being part of this team gratitude

1. Breathing warm up - same breathing warm up, followed by a new Pranayama (below)
2. Bhastrika breathing - 5 mins, (Bhastrika, Ujjayi, Nadi shodan, Kapalbhati, Chandra/Surya bhedan, Brahmari, Sitali + Lion's breath)
3. Full body movement - 2 mins, hovering, shadow boxing, full body movement, limbering
4. Stretching - 5 mins, full body stretching
5. Standing asana - Tree, Front leg up, Side, Dancer's Pose
Seated Poses were supposed to be done, but no one was interested


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6. Partner yoga - Leaning Back


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7. (not done) Anapana Meditation - 10 mins, one type per day (Counting, Anapana, Vipassana, Sambhavi, Kumbhaka, Nada)
8. (not done) Magic - Reappearing Coin after 10 mins of Anapana
9. Gratitude - I asked each of them what they were grateful for and we all meditated on that...feeling it and not thinking it

Summary / Ending Thoughts
This class only had 4 kids and they were not interested. Partner yoga wasn't working and I didn't do the magic anymore. I thought it was just my class but according to the other teachers, it was the same for them. It seems like the whole class was influenced by one rogue student who had an attitude and the whole class bought into it.

I've no idea how to reboot the system.

Last Class
Class 8 only had 4 kids and they were not interested. Partner yoga wasn't working and I didn't do the magic anymore. I thought it was just my class but according to the other teachers, it was the same for them. It seems like the whole class was influenced by one rogue student who had an attitude and the whole class bought into it. I've no idea how to reboot the system.

For Today
Since the structured approach wasn't working anymore, I'll try winging the class today. No plan, no structure. Let's see how spontaneity works.

How it went
There were 9 students today, 2 of them below 7. About 3 would participate and the rest would simply not move. The ones below 7 were restless and disruptive to everyone else. It felt like I was talking to a wall.

Summary / Ending Thoughts
This was a frustrating day. Meeting with the other teachers, it was decided to start yoga 8:30 am M and W. Hopefully, starting yoga first before the kids get too excited with art class, gets them focused.

I am beginning to think that yoga at this early stage is too soon. Perhaps yoga should begin with kids a little older. Yoga for 4 year olds is too soon. I asked ChatGPT what the ideal age is for kids. It said 3, but it was all about play, songs and games - then it's not yoga, it's just play. It said structured yoga (asana, pranayama and meditation) can begin at around age 9-12.

Last Class
Class 9 had 9 kids and they were not interested. The teachers met and decided to shift yoga to 8:30 am on M/W to let them start the day with yoga instead of art.

For Today
Researching with ChatGPT, I came across Bal Yoga for Kids. I followed the links and will use one Youtube class for kids, below:

1. Bhramari breathing
2. Ujjayi breathing, very slow, silently counting 1-10 in inhale and exhale, with Gyana mudra
3. Belly breathing, lying down, very slow, silently counting 1-10 in inhale and exhale
------ below not done ---------
4. Roll up / Roll down, knees tucked in
5. Roll side to side, knees tucked in
6. Downward Dog: from Child's Pose >> Table (cat/cow) >> Downward Dog >> Vajrasana >> Child's Pose

How it went
I already lost them after belly breathing, so I transitioned to something new - juggling.

Juggling
The juggling tutorial video consisted of 3 steps. I only taught them the first step. There were not enough balls for everyone so they took turns. The meditation component was for them to visualize in slow motion, the ball coming up and they catch it on one hand, throw it up and catch it with the other hand. The purpose is to train the mind to focus, and see a noticeable improvement in actual performance.

Summary / Ending Thoughts
Juggling saved the day but it's still a challenge how to keep them engaged for the actual yoga asanas.

Last Class
Class 10 was the introduction of Juggling to focus the mind.

For Today
Continuing the Yoga for Kids video series and Lesson 2 of the juggling:

Below is added from last session because it wasn't done.

1. Roll up / Roll down, knees tucked in
2. Roll side to side, knees tucked in
3. Downward Dog: from Child's Pose >> Table (cat/cow) >> Downward Dog >> Vajrasana >> Child's Pose
4. Seated poses - Sukhasana, Sidhasana, Padmasana, Vajrasana
5. OM chanting
6. Bhastrika breathing
7. Juggling - lesson 2 just shown but not enough ball for everyone

1. hand flipping with hands alternately facing up and down
2. interlaced fingers, eyes closed, kids follow 'left/right' instruction. This keeps them concentrated and focused
3. 5 fingers pressed, eyes closed, kids follow '1-2-3-4-5' instruction. This keeps them concentrated and focused
4. echo the numbers, teacher calls out 5 numbers in sequence and students repeat the same sequence. This sharpens kids' memory
5. nose-ear-clap, eye closed, reverse hand position after every clap. This enhances concentration and mental sharpness
6. hakini mudra, 2 mins, enhances memory, increases concentration
7. chin mudra, 2 mins, calms the mind, energizes the body
8. dhyana mudra, 2 mins, builds awareness and enhances intuition

How it went
xxxxxx

Summary / Ending Thoughts
xxxxxxxxxxx

Last Class
Class 12, most were well behaved. Not enough balls for juggling.

For Today
The juggling balls were ordered but haven't arrived yet - so no juggling.

How it went
At this point, it was like pulling teeth to get their interest. Even with no disrupter, they've lost interest.

Summary / Ending Thoughts
I talked to Kat advising that I won't extend the program beyond June 21. I didn't feel like a yoga teacher - more like a glorified 'yaya' who had to entertain, juggle, do magic, tell stories, etc. At the end of the class, I felt drained, vs feeling invigorated after an adult yoga class. Instead, I will go to Cebu to use my ticket and have some decompression.

Last Class
Class 12 was bleak with nearly everyone losing interest - not just in yoga but also in the art classes. Kat advised that the juggling balls will be available for this class.

For Today
Continuing the juggling lessons. Also, with the help of AI to spin a story using English words in Yoga, I'll tell a story invoking Yoga words which the kids have to identify and perform. Anyone who doesn't join the activity will meditate - there is no element of punishment.

1. Story Telling: Mulan and her Adventures
(this is a long story that spans multiple classes)

Outdoor Adventure
Once upon a time, there was a brave explorer named Mulan who loved going on adventures. One sunny morning, Mulan decided to explore a mysterious MOUNTAIN looming on the horizon. She got her hiking shoes, made a FORWARD BEND to tie her shoe laces. She then mounted on her HORSE and galloped away.

The Mushroom Picker
The first person she met was a mushroom picker and his dog. When his dog sniffed a mushroom under the ground, it barked, then the DOG FACED DOWN, and started digging. Soon, it unearthed a truffle mushroom! The DOG FACED UP to his master to show the wonderful find. It was a joyful moment for the mushroom picker and his dog.

The Warrior and the Tree
As Mulan went deeper into the mountain, she climbed to the top and looked around. From the peak of the mountain, Mulan spotted a tall TREE swaying in the wind. Below the tree, Mulan saw a mighty WARRIOR standing tall and strong with his impregnable armor.

2. Juggling

Still from Lesson 1, 2 minutes with everyone passing one ball to the other hand. Then, 5 mins of visualizing the act. Then doing the real juggling to see if there is improvement.

Then trying to juggle 2 balls. Homework: meditate for 10 minutes before going to bed on juggling 2 balls

How it went
The story telling got their attention. It helped that points were given to whoever got the word first - they were engaged. For juggling, they spent 2 mins on visualization. The homework is visualizing 2 balls. The one who juggles 5 throws at the program's end get to keep the 3 balls.

Summary / Ending Thoughts
The story telling can extend until the last day. The juggling visualization can also extend to June 20.

Last Class
Class 13 got them engaged with story telling and having a juggling ball for each.

For Today
Continuing with the adventure of Mulan and juggling lessons with 2 balls.

1. Story Telling: Mulan and her Adventures
(this is a long story that spans multiple classes)

Outdoor Adventure
Once upon a time, there was a brave explorer named Mulan who loved going on adventures. One sunny morning, Mulan decided to explore a mysterious MOUNTAIN looming on the horizon. She got her hiking shoes, made a FORWARD BEND to tie her shoe laces. She then mounted on her HORSE and galloped away.

The Mushroom Picker
The first person she met was a mushroom picker and his dog. When his dog sniffed a mushroom under the ground, it barked, then the DOG FACED DOWN, and started digging. Soon, it unearthed a truffle mushroom! The DOG FACED UP to his master to show the wonderful find. It was a joyful moment for the mushroom picker and his dog.

The Warrior and the Tree
As Mulan went deeper into the mountain, she climbed to the top and looked around. From the peak of the mountain, Mulan spotted a tall TREE swaying in the wind. Below the tree, Mulan saw a mighty WARRIOR standing tall and strong with his impregnable armor.

How it went
The story telling went through. I got their attention more when there was competition amongst themselves - who can hold the Boat Pose longest? or the High Plank? They still struggle with one ball in juggling.

Last Class
Class 14 was manageable. They like the yoga adventure story.

For Today
Continuing the Yoga adventure story

How it went
Everyone chose their fav seated pose and we took turns on doing everybody's fav pranayama. The adventure story ended. I talked more about life and how they can hack it...by being non-reactive, by focusing inside and not outside, by observing their thoughts. There was no time for juggling.

Summary / Ending Thoughts
This session went well...being the 2nd to the last day.

Last Class
Class 15 was manageable without juggling

For Today
Being their last day, it'll be a day of sharing and restrospection.

How it went
Body movement, stretching, breathing...then SHARING - what have they learned? How can they apply that in day to day life? How can they continue this practice with no teacher? Breathing/Meditation to end the class...class picture.

Summary / Ending Thoughts
Being the last day, there was an air of festivity and it was a little harder to manage them, but all went well. Maybe some will continue with the practice and meditate before going to bed. I hope so.

Meditation is NOT Play
While watching kid's meditation videos on Youtube, I noticed that the 'teacher' is taking the kid into a fantasy feel-good adventure that makes him feel positive and relaxed - that is nice and dandy if the objective is to make the kid feel good. I have to disagree with this approach. The intention of meditation is to disconnect the mind from the thinking process so that the mind is able to distinguish 'thinking' from 'observing the thoughts without reacting to them'. By letting the kid fantasize about a scene is to have the mind go into the rabbit hole with the thought. Awareness is not developed and a meditative state is not achieved. Because of that, I had to develop my own style...or so I thought. After a few failed attempts, I had to default to the fantasy storytelling, but with a twist - once I get them to do a pose, I invoke the yogic "3 best friends" where they have to do the right breathing with awareness. It partially worked.

Herding Cats
Teaching kids is tough. I ask them to keep silent and no talking, but no one's listening. Even if they become silent, they don't stay silent for long. Doing magic, juggling, group poses and partner yoga help to get their attention, but they don't always work. Teaching kids is like herding cats.

Age Matters
There is a great gap between younger than 7 to 7-12 years old. Younger than 7 and they cannot keep still and their behavior is disruptive to the rest of the class. They can cause a beehive behavior and then no one's listening anymore. Next time, I would begin the age at 7...younger will need their own 'young' class - and a different teacher. Honestly, I don't think yoga is for kids who cannot keep still and listen. 7 years old would be a start, but perhaps 9 years old would be more manageable. I asked ChatGPT what the ideal age is for kids. It said 3, but it was all about play, songs and games - then it's not yoga, it's just play. It said structured yoga (asana, pranayama and meditation) can begin at around age 9-12 - this is more like it for me.

At the End of the Day
When the program ended, and I saw them feeling cuddly with me despite me being "strict" (I actually thought I was playful already), it made me realize it was all worth the effort. These are amazing kids with a bright future.

1. - xxxxxxxxxxx

1. Lite Ferries (Roro)
   T-Th-Sun, departs 11:59pm, 5 hours, arrives 5 am
   Daily, departs 12 noon, arrives 5pm
   As a Roro, you can load your motorbike or car, no Senior Citizen discount for online ticket purchase
2. Ocean Jet - 2 hours, departs 10:40 am, arrives 12:40 pm, Pier 1 Cebu

Tagbilaran
TAGBILARAN


September Snapshots: Hair September 1-31, 2024
Sunrise Yoga at Bantawan, Old Airport September 2024
Thai Food for September? September 2024
August Snapshots: Contol Tower, Archway, Blood Compact, Bridge, Laundry, Kape Huan, Drag Race, Boulevard August 1-31, 2024
Aug Food Odyssey: Pizza, Sikwate, Puto Maya, Budbud August 2024
She Sat Beside Me August 31, 2024
Yoga at the Tagbilaran Airstrip August 2024
DIY University August 31, 2024
Property Mapping using Google Sites August 26, 2024
July Snapshots: camping chair/lurker July 1-31, 2024
Learning Cebuano: July July 1-31, 2024
Kitchen Hacks: Wheat Loaf, Rosti, Pancit Canton, Pizza, Fruit Breakfast July 2024
Movie Review: The Matrix (1999) July 15, 2024
Yoga Talk Community July 14/28, 2024
Mangaon ta sa Hangos July 9, 2024
Bohol Gothic Wine Label July 5, 2024
June Snapshots: Cake delivery, Free hanging June 1-30, 2024
Kitchen Indulgence: Wheat Bread, Pizza, Lechon Sandwich, French Toast June 2024
May Snapshots: Stairway to Heaven May 2024
May 2024: Carinderia food May 2024
Moving to Taloto, Tagbilaran City May 19, 2024
Yoga for Grown ups May 27 - June 21, 2024
Yoga and Meditation for Kids May 27 - June 20, 2024
Dalareich Chocolate House Revisited May 4, 2024
Kat's Community Invite Apr 28 - May 19, 2024
30 days in Tagbilaran, Thank You! Oct 8, 2017
Breakfast Talk with Tagbilaran's Finest Oct 8, 2017
Exploring the Cafe Scene of Tagbilaran Oct 7, 2017
Yoga for 60+ Students at the University of Bohol Oct 4, 2017
Chocolate Overload At Dalareich Chocolate House Oct 2, 2017
Talk on Philosophy and Spirituality to 12-Graders at the University of Bohol Sep 27, 2017
Celebrating the International Day of Peace Sep 23, 2017
Judging a Student Debate at the University of Bohol Sept 15, 2017
Fitness Workout with Chie at Bohol Tropics Resort Sept 13, 2017
Modified Ashtanga Primary Series by Jing Yoga Sept 12, 2017
Tagbilaran Revisited Sep 7-12, 2017
Hello Tagbilaran! Jun 19-25, 2017

Bohol FYI / Tips

• the tourist area where most of the hotels, restaurants, ticket offices, tour operators are, is located within the Alona Beach area
• the tourist attractions in Bohol are far apart and spread-out. It would be difficult to visit them all using public mass transit. Better hire a van (P3500/day) if in a big group, or rent a motorcycle (P400/day + gas)
• Bohol relies on its tourism for revenue. As expected, everything they can capitalize on from tourism is extensively used and developed

Tagbilaran Port to Panglao

1. don't take the tricycles lined-up inside the port. Walk past the port gate and immediately outside, you'll see many tricycles. Take one to the bus terminal in Dao (~P15)
2. in Dao, take the jeep that plies the Panglao route (~P20)

Tagbilaran (Bohol) to Cebu City by boat

1. Weesam Express - departs 6:15 AM, 11:30 AM, 4:00 PM
   one way: Economy (aircon) P500.00, Economy (non-aircon) P400.00, First Class P600.00
   round trip promo (at least 2 days advance booking): Economy (aircon) P600, Economy(non-aircon) P500, First Class P1200
   round trip promo (1 day or on the day booking): Economy (aircon) P800, Economy (non-aircon) P700, First Class P1200
2. Ocean Jet - departs 6-7:05-8:20-9:20-10:40-11:40AM, 1-2-3:30-4:20-5:30-6:30PM, 2 hours, arrives Pier 1 in Cebu
   Open Air / Tourist Class P800, Business Class P1000
   +63(32)255 7560 / +63 (32) 255 0115 / 0917 638 0000
3. SuperCat (2GO) - departs 5:50-11AM, 3:45-5:25-8:15PM, arrives Pier 1 in Cebu
   P 500.00
   +63 32 233 7000

Things to do, Places to go in Bohol

1. Chocolate Hills - this is a clustering of more than 1200 hills within a 50km² area. They range in height from 30-50 meters. What's unusual is their near-perfect conical shape resembling an individual chocolate chip. No one knows how they were formed. Entrance is P50/pax.
2. Tarsier Conservation Area - located Upper Bonbon, Loboc. The tarsiers are no longer being played at by tourists as circus props, but instead, visitors now view them in cordoned-off areas in their natural 6ha habitat. As they are territorial and nocturnal, they are predictable on where they can be viewed. P50/pax.
3. Alona Beach (Panglao) - Alona Beach is the tourist hub of Bohol. It has 1.5 kms of white sand beach lined-up by bars, hotels and restos. Alona is also the jump-off point for Balicasag Island, a world class dive destination.
4. Danao Adventure Park - located in Barangay Magtangtang, 72 kms (2 hours ride) from Tagbilaran. Adventure activities include river trekking, tyrolean traverse, rappelling, bouldering, rock climbing and ziplining.

Bohol
Bohol
Anda
Exploring Combento Cave Pool Jun 29, 2017
Visiting Cabagnow Cave Pool Of Anda Jun 28, 2017
Exploring Anda, Bohol Jun 25-30, 2017

Candijay
Roadtrip from Candijay to Ubay Jul 1, 2017
Firefly Tour In Candijay, Bohol Jun 30, 2017
Freediving Canawa Cold Spring Of Candijay, Bohol Jun 30, 2017
Splashing At Can-Umantad Falls, Candijay, Bohol Jun 30, 2017

Carlos P. Garcia Island
Exploring Carlos P. Garcia (CPG) Island by Bike Dec 1, 2017

Corella
Cycling to View the Tarsier in Corella Oct 26, 2017


Dauis
DAUIS


Yoga Talk with BCBP Kids July 6, 2024
Sikwate at Daday Painitan May 9, 2024
Cliff Dive at Molave Cove Feb 11, 2018
Freediving at Molave Point, Dauis Nov 6, 2017
The Return to Hinagdanan Cave Nov 5, 2017
Exploring Hinagdanan Cave Oct 24, 2017


Loay
The Ride to Morning Hill Oct 22, 2017
The Ride to the Old Spanish Tower Oct 21, 2017

Loboc
Yoga for Plus-sized Women May 24, 2024
Bohol Yoga Festival April 20/21, 2024
Goodbye Loboc, Goodbye Philippines Mar 15, 2018
The CubbyHole: Envisioning a Utopian Shangrila Mar 10, 2018
Fat Shredder with the Russian Twist Mar 2, 2018
No-Dismount Climb to Cruz Daku Mar 1, 2018
Jeffrey's Cardio Program Feb 26, 2018
SUP Yoga with Lalah de Dios at Fox and the Firefly Feb 25, 2018
Bike Ride with Juan Huerte: Loboc, Sikatuna, Corella and Baclayon Feb 25, 2018
CT Scan Result Feb 23, 2018
The Silent Killer has Arrived Feb 19-22, 2018
24+ Days at Lyn's Backpackers Inn Jan 23 - Feb 16, 2018
All Day Fun with the Loboc Crew Feb 11, 2018
20-Minute Rope Skipping w/ Pranayama and Meditation Feb 9, 2018
Calisthenics with Jeffrey Feb 7, 2018
Abs-Core Workout with Jeffrey Feb 5, 2018
High Intensity Cardio Workout Feb 2, 2018
Ride to the Landslide with Jeffrey Jan 31, 2018
Farm Tour with Mr. Raymond Cal Jan 29, 2018
Cacao Drum Roasting Jan 27, 2018
Making Sikwate: from cacao fruit to a hot dark chocolate drink Jan 25, 2018
5 Weeks at the Fox and Firefly Cottages Dec 13, 2017 - Jan 23, 2018
In-House Yoga Teacher at the Fox and Firefly Cottages Jan 22-Mar 14, 2018
Mountain Bike Rides from Tagbilaran to Loboc Jan 18, 2018
Firefly Tour on a Stand-Up Paddle (SUP) Dec 19, 2017
Playing Mountain Bike Tour Optimizer Dec 18, 2017
Back to Loboc Dec 13-17, 2017
37 Days in Loboc - Thank You and Goodbye Oct 8-Nov 14, 2017
Exploring Busay Falls, Loktob Spring And Jimili-An Spring Nov 11, 2017
Stand-Up Paddle Yoga with Joan Christine Nov 3, 2017
SUP (Stand Up Paddle) Bohol Oct 29, 2017
Exploring Guimba and Sog-ong Caves of Loboc Oct 22, 2017
Ziplining and Cable Car Ride at Eco-Tourism Adventure Park Oct 22, 2017
Savouring Villagio Pizza Oct 19, 2017
Wet and Wild Bonbon-Alegria Downhill Ride Oct 18, 2017
River Cruise on Loboc River Oct 17, 2017
Back Road Ride To Loay Oct 17, 2017
Leisurely Ride to Loktob Spring Oct 14, 2017
Sweet Ride to Busay Falls Oct 13, 2017
Bike Climb to the Virgen de Guadalupe Oct 12, 2017
The Ride to Cruz Daku (Big Cross) Oct 11, 2017
Exploring Loboc, Bohol Oct 8, 2017


Panglao
PANGLAO


Kat's Birthday at Oceanica April 24, 2024
Teaching 'Energising Yoga' at Jing Yoga & Wellness April 23-28, 2024
Freediving in Panglao with Haka Dive Center April 23, 2024
Coastal Cleanup with Plastic Free Bohol Sept 16, 2017
Exploring Panglao Jun 12-18, 2017
Yoga With Jing And Rai At Oasis Resort Jun 18, 2017
Freediving With Ben Meerhaeghe At SeaQuest Dive Center Jun 16, 2017
Scuba Diving Balicasag Island With SeaQuest Dive Center Jun 15, 2017
Bohol Revisited Jun 12, 2017
Exploring Bohol with Metz Nov 28-30, 2015


San Miguel
Visiting Bayongan Lake Nov 22, 2017

Sevilla
Killer MTB Ride from Sevilla Oct 30, 2017

Sikatuna
Solo Ride To The Sikatuna Tree Park Nov 2, 2017


Tagbilaran
TAGBILARAN


September Snapshots: Hair September 1-31, 2024
Sunrise Yoga at Bantawan, Old Airport September 2024
Thai Food for September? September 2024
August Snapshots: Contol Tower, Archway, Blood Compact, Bridge, Laundry, Kape Huan, Drag Race, Boulevard August 1-31, 2024
Aug Food Odyssey: Pizza, Sikwate, Puto Maya, Budbud August 2024
She Sat Beside Me August 31, 2024
Yoga at the Tagbilaran Airstrip August 2024
DIY University August 31, 2024
Property Mapping using Google Sites August 26, 2024
July Snapshots: camping chair/lurker July 1-31, 2024
Learning Cebuano: July July 1-31, 2024
Kitchen Hacks: Wheat Loaf, Rosti, Pancit Canton, Pizza, Fruit Breakfast July 2024
Movie Review: The Matrix (1999) July 15, 2024
Yoga Talk Community July 14/28, 2024
Mangaon ta sa Hangos July 9, 2024
Bohol Gothic Wine Label July 5, 2024
June Snapshots: Cake delivery, Free hanging June 1-30, 2024
Kitchen Indulgence: Wheat Bread, Pizza, Lechon Sandwich, French Toast June 2024
May Snapshots: Stairway to Heaven May 2024
May 2024: Carinderia food May 2024
Moving to Taloto, Tagbilaran City May 19, 2024
Yoga for Grown ups May 27 - June 21, 2024
Yoga and Meditation for Kids May 27 - June 20, 2024
Dalareich Chocolate House Revisited May 4, 2024
Kat's Community Invite Apr 28 - May 19, 2024
30 days in Tagbilaran, Thank You! Oct 8, 2017
Breakfast Talk with Tagbilaran's Finest Oct 8, 2017
Exploring the Cafe Scene of Tagbilaran Oct 7, 2017
Yoga for 60+ Students at the University of Bohol Oct 4, 2017
Chocolate Overload At Dalareich Chocolate House Oct 2, 2017
Talk on Philosophy and Spirituality to 12-Graders at the University of Bohol Sep 27, 2017
Celebrating the International Day of Peace Sep 23, 2017
Judging a Student Debate at the University of Bohol Sept 15, 2017
Fitness Workout with Chie at Bohol Tropics Resort Sept 13, 2017
Modified Ashtanga Primary Series by Jing Yoga Sept 12, 2017
Tagbilaran Revisited Sep 7-12, 2017
Hello Tagbilaran! Jun 19-25, 2017


Ubay
Ubay
2017
Goodbye and Thank You, Ubay Nov 14-Dec 13, 2017
Visiting the Ubay Stock Farm Dec 8, 2017
Exploring Cambugsay Healing Hills with Lars Jensen Nov 22, 2017
Visiting Ubay Green Park Nov 18, 2017
The Ride to Sinandigan Boardwalk and the Yamashita Treasure Hunt Nov 18, 2017
Ubay Life Nov 17, 2017
In Search of the Next Destination Nov 14, 2017
2 Days in Ubay Jul 1-3, 2017
Roadtrip from Candijay to Ubay Jul 1, 2017