YOGA POGA SHMOGA! is an endearing story about the resiliency of a sibling relationship, tested when Mitzi chooses to practice yoga with her friends instead of hanging out with her younger brother, Axel. Feeling left out, Axel scorns his sister’s new activity with his dismissive catch phrase, “Yoga Poga Shmoga!” When his sister offers him his own yoga mat, Axel gives in, imagining his yoga mat as a magic carpet and on it, learns some yoga poses. He is soon reveling in the calming, joyous nature of yoga and inspires their whole neighborhood to practice in unison.

Written by wellness advocate and founder of Sonima.com, Sonia Jones, and illustrated by acclaimed artist Todd Dakins, YOGA POGA SHMOGA! dives headfirst into the power and fun of yoga, showing how it takes one person to open a world of mindfulness to the larger community. Yoga for children has gained popularity in recent years. 3.1% of American children now practice yoga, which has been shown to reduce stress, help focus and build self-esteem in children.

Jones, co-founder of the Sonima Foundation, Founder of Sonima.com, and Advisory Board Member of The Contemplative Sciences Center at the University of Virginia, has a deep connection with and passion for yoga, meditation and general health and wellness. Yoga doesn’t discriminate—anyone who wants to be mindful, fit and healthy, no matter their age, race or gender, can practice. Jones advocates the importance of yoga and mindfulness for children, adding that kids who are physically and emotionally present are healthier, do better in school, and treat people kindly.

Related: The Surprising Research on the Power of Compassion

YOGA POGA SHMOGA! helps children and families learn about the benefits and the enjoyment of yoga in an accessible, relatable way. It encourages families to incorporate an active, healthy lifestyle into their everyday lives. 100% of the author’s proceeds will be donated to the Sonima Foundation. Watch the video above to get a sneak peek of the book before it hits stores, and go to Amazon.com to preorder it now!

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