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Lesson 2 - Arctic Adventure Yoga Poses

Imaginative Yoga Story Journeys

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Nursery

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Yoga

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30 min

Big Question

How can yoga poses help us explore the Arctic and feel brave when we're nervous?

Learning Objectives

To practice yoga poses that represent Arctic creatures and features
To learn about Arctic animals and environments through movement
To develop balance, coordination and mindfulness through yoga

Key Outcomes

Children will confidently perform 5+ yoga poses representing Arctic themes
Children will demonstrate improved balance and body awareness
Children will use breathing techniques to manage emotions and anxiety

Equipment & Resources Required

Yoga Mat

1 per child (20)

Arrange in circle or scattered formation with arm's length spacing

Alternative: Towels, marked floor spaces with tape

Storybook

Keep nearby for relaxation session

Alternative: iPad with Arctic images, printed pictures

Background Music

1 (optional)

Low volume to maintain calm atmosphere

Alternative: Nature sounds, instrumental music

Key Vocabulary

Pose

A position we hold with our body in yoga

Balance

Staying steady on one foot or in a position

Breathing

Taking air in through nose and out through mouth slowly

Arctic

A very cold, snowy place where polar bears and penguins live

Mountain

A very tall, strong rock formation that reaches high into the sky

Skill Progression Pathway

Understanding where pupils are coming from and where they're going

Prior Learning

Basic standing and sitting positions
Following simple movement instructions
Understanding of animals and their movements

Current Skills

Balancing poses (Tree, Mountain)
Animal representation through movement
Breathing techniques for emotional regulation
Spatial awareness and safe movement

Next Steps

More complex balancing poses
Longer pose holds and sequences
Independent pose creation and demonstration

Milestone Indicators

Can hold Tree pose for 10+ seconds each leg

Demonstrates clear animal characteristics in poses

Uses breathing independently when feeling anxious

Key Teaching Points

Emphasise that wobbling and imperfection are completely normal in yoga
Connect yoga poses to emotional regulation and feeling brave
Use imaginative storytelling to maintain engagement throughout
Focus on individual progress rather than comparison with others
Encourage slow, mindful breathing throughout all activities
Celebrate all attempts and efforts regardless of 'perfect' form
Make clear connections between poses and real animals/objects

Common Misconceptions

Yoga poses must be perfect - teach that every body is different
Falling out of poses means failure - explain that wobbling is natural
You need to be flexible to do yoga - emphasise that yoga helps you become more flexible
Feeling nervous is bad - teach that yoga helps us feel brave
Breathing isn't important - show how breathing helps with poses and emotions

SEN Adaptations

ADHD

Shorter pose holds, fidget toys during relaxation, movement breaks between poses

dyspraxia

Simplified pose instructions, wall support, larger movement patterns, extra practice time

autism spectrum

Predictable routine, visual pose cards, quiet corner available, clear start/stop signals

visual impairment

Verbal descriptions of all poses, tactile guidance for positioning, partner support for balance

hearing impairment

Clear visual demonstrations, gesture cues, written instruction cards

physical disability

Seated versions of all poses, chair support for standing poses, adapted range of motion

Cross-Curricular Links

English

Following instructions, descriptive language for animals, story listening

Maths

Counting breaths, timing holds, spatial awareness and direction

Science

Animal habitats and adaptations, body systems and breathing, balance and coordination

Geography

Arctic regions, climate and weather, polar environments

PSHE

Emotional regulation, cooperation and turn-taking, self-confidence

Teacher Guidance

Positioning

Move around space to observe all children, position near children who need support

Observation Focus

Watch for balance attempts, emotional responses, comfort in poses

Intervention Points

Step in if child struggling with balance, showing frustration, or appears uncomfortable

Demonstration Notes

Model all poses clearly, show modifications, emphasise that everyone's body is different

Verbal Cues

•'Breathe slowly and find your balance'
•'It's okay to wobble - that's normal!'
•'Only go as far as feels comfortable'
•'Focus on one spot to help with balance'

Safety Considerations

Space & Surface Requirements

Space Requirements

Minimum 3m x 4m clear space, soft flooring preferred (carpet/mats)

Surface Check

Non-slip surface, free from obstacles, appropriate temperature

Equipment Safety

Safety Checks

•Yoga mats checked for cleanliness and non-slip backing
•Adequate spacing (arm's length) between children
•Remove shoes and socks for better grip

Risk Management

Key Risks

•Loss of balance during Tree pose
•Neck strain in Child's pose
•Wrist discomfort in Downward Dog

Risk Mitigation

•Wall support available for balance poses
•No forcing of positions or depth
•Constant monitoring of comfort levels
•Immediate stop if any discomfort reported

Supervision & Emergency Procedures

Supervision Points

•Position for clear view of all children
•Monitor facial expressions for discomfort
•Watch for overexertion or holding breath

Emergency Procedures

Stop activity immediately, assess comfort, provide support or alternative position, seek medical attention if injury occurs