Why My Kids Now Prefer the 'Asian Squat'—And What It Taught Me About Parenting in Bali

I never thought squatting would become second nature to my kids, but Bali has a way of changing the little things—for the better. Whether we're waiting outside Indomaret or hanging out during a Gojek ride, I often glance over to find all my children dropped effortlessly into what we now call the "Asian squat." And the best part? They love it. This deep, flat-footed squat may look unusual to Western eyes, but it's a posture deeply rooted in much of Asian culture. Here in Bali, it’s not just normal—it’s functional. And as it turns out, it's incredibly healthy, especially for growing bodies. Squatting like this naturally stretches the hips, ankles, and lower back. It promotes flexibility and strength without any special equipment. It's like nature's own pediatrician-approved yoga pose. Beyond the physical benefits, there's something grounding about this habit. My yoga teacher used to say, "We carry issues in our tissues," and I’ve started to see what she meant. Letting the body settle into this position feels like a reset—a way for the kids to stay connected to their bodies and the moment, instead of being glued to a screen or slouching in a chair. Living in Bali has introduced us to a more mindful, body-aware way of life, and the Asian squat is just one of those quirky-yet-beautiful adaptations we’ve embraced as a family. I hope they carry this habit back home with them—small reminders that sometimes the best things for us are simple, instinctive, and close to the ground. #BaliFamilyFinds #ParentingInBali #FamilyTravel #AsianSquat #BaliWithKids #HealthyHabits #MindfulParenting