Lesson 3 - Space Journey Yoga Adventure
Imaginative Yoga Story Journeys
•Nursery
•Yoga
•Start Planning Better PE Lessons
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How can yoga help us feel brave and calm when we go on exciting adventures?
Learning Objectives
- To develop balance and coordination through yoga poses
- To use imagination to create movements inspired by space
- To practice breathing techniques for self-regulation
Key Outcomes
- Students will demonstrate basic yoga poses with improved balance
- Students will create imaginative movements representing space elements
- Students will use breathing exercises to manage emotions
Equipment & Resources Required
Arrange in circle with clear space around each child
Alternative: Towels or marked floor spaces
Available for relaxation reading
Alternative: Printed space images or tablet
Gentle, space-themed or calming instrumental music
Alternative: None - can be done in silence
Key Vocabulary
Staying steady and not falling over
Taking air in through nose and out through mouth
Making our muscles long and reaching far
A special yoga position we hold still
A person who travels to space
Skill Progression Pathway
Understanding where pupils are coming from and where they're going
Prior Learning
- Basic awareness of body parts
- Simple stretching movements
- Following simple instructions
Current Skills
- Basic yoga poses with support
- Imaginative movement patterns
- Breathing techniques for calm
Next Steps
- More complex yoga sequences
- Independent pose holding
- Creating own yoga stories
Milestone Indicators
Key Teaching Points
- Always demonstrate poses before asking children to attempt them
- Emphasise breathing throughout the session for emotional regulation
- Use imaginative story context to maintain engagement and wonder
- Validate children's feelings and connect yoga to emotional wellbeing
- Focus on effort and participation rather than perfect pose execution
- Maintain calm, gentle energy throughout especially during relaxation
- Connect lesson themes to real-life applications of courage and calmness
Common Misconceptions
- Yoga poses must be perfect - emphasise personal best effort
- Breathing exercises are boring - make them part of space adventure
- Balance poses are too hard - provide support and modifications
- Relaxation time is just rest - explain active mindfulness and body awareness
- Only flexible children can do yoga - focus on individual progress and benefits
SEN Adaptations
ADHD
- Shorter pose holds, frequent position changes, clear physical boundaries
dyspraxia
- Simplified pose instructions, adult modelling, extra time for pose transitions
autism spectrum
- Predictable routine, visual schedule of poses, quiet space available if needed
visual impairment
- Clear verbal descriptions of all poses, partner guidance, tactile mat boundaries
hearing impairment
- Visual demonstrations, hand signals for poses, written instruction cards
physical disability
- Seated versions of poses, upper body only options, wheelchair accessible movements
Cross-Curricular Links
English
Vocabulary development, listening to stories, creative expression
Maths
Counting breaths, timing poses, understanding symmetry in poses
Science
Learning about space, planets, and Earth from space perspective
Geography
Spatial awareness, directions, understanding Earth as our planet
PSHE
Emotional regulation, courage, self-confidence, and empathy
Teacher Guidance
Positioning
Central position during instruction, perimeter during free movement
Observation Focus
Watch for balance, breathing technique, and emotional engagement
Intervention Points
Step in if poses become unsafe or children show distress
Demonstration Notes
Always demonstrate poses first, show modifications, emphasise breathing throughout
Verbal Cues
- •'Breathe slowly and deeply'
- •'Strong legs like mountain rocks'
- •'Gentle movements like butterflies'
Safety Considerations
Space & Surface Requirements
Space Requirements
Minimum 6m x 8m clear area with soft flooring
Surface Check
Non-slip mats, carpeted area, or gym mats essential
Equipment Safety
Safety Checks
- •Mats flat and secure to prevent tripping
- •Clear pathways between mats
- •No obstacles in movement areas
Risk Management
Key Risks
- •Falls during balance poses
- •Collisions during movement
- •Overstretching in poses
Risk Mitigation
- •Wall support available for balance poses
- •Emphasise gentle movements only
- •Clear directional movement patterns
- •Adult supervision of poses
Supervision & Emergency Procedures
Supervision Points
- •Position to see all children during poses
- •Monitor for signs of strain or discomfort
- •Watch for unsafe pose modifications
Emergency Procedures
Stop activity immediately, assess any injuries, provide comfort and first aid as needed