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Lesson 4 - Mother Earth Yoga Adventure

Adventure Yoga: Body Awareness

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Reception

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Yoga

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30 min

Big Question

How can we use our bodies to show appreciation for the natural world around us?

Learning Objectives

To perform tree pose with balance and control
To demonstrate downward dog pose maintaining proper V-shape
To use arms effectively for balance and support in yoga poses

Key Outcomes

Students will execute tree pose on both sides showing improved balance
Students will maintain downward dog pose displaying correct body alignment
Students will demonstrate understanding of using arms for stability in various poses

Equipment & Resources Required

Yoga Mat

1 per student (30)

Arranged in a circle or grid with enough space between each mat

Alternative: Carpet tiles, towels, or designated floor spaces

Relaxation Music

1 playlist

Prepared and tested before lesson begins

Alternative: Nature sounds, soft instrumental music

Books

Ready for relaxation segment

Alternative: Environmental story or nature-themed book

Key Vocabulary

Tree pose

A standing balance pose on one foot with arms like branches

Downward dog

A pose making a V-shape with hands and feet on the ground

Balance

Staying steady and still without falling over

V-shape

A shape that looks like the letter V

Mountain pose

Standing tall and strong like a mountain

Skill Progression Pathway

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

Prior Learning

Basic standing balance on one foot
Simple stretching movements
Following movement instructions

Current Skills

Tree pose with arm variations
Downward dog pose technique
Using arms for balance support

Next Steps

More complex balance poses
Flowing yoga sequences
Independent practice of poses

Milestone Indicators

Can balance on one foot for 5+ seconds

Demonstrates clear V-shape in downward dog

Shows purposeful use of arms for stability

Key Teaching Points

Always demonstrate poses clearly before asking students to attempt them
Emphasise breathing coordination with all movements and poses
Create calm, respectful environment that supports focus and relaxation
Connect all poses to nature themes to enhance engagement and learning
Offer modifications and alternatives to ensure all students can participate
Focus on effort and improvement rather than perfect pose execution
Use environmental themes to develop appreciation for the natural world

Common Misconceptions

Students may think yoga poses must be perfect - emphasise personal best effort
Some may believe balance should be instant - explain that balance improves with practice
Students might think breathing is automatic - teach conscious breath awareness
Some may think yoga is only stretching - explain strength and focus elements
Students may believe they must copy exactly - encourage personal interpretation within safety

SEN Adaptations

ADHD

Include regular movement breaks, provide clear boundaries for activities, offer fidget alternatives during relaxation

dyspraxia

Break down poses into smaller steps, provide extra time for positioning, offer physical support as needed

autism spectrum

Provide clear structure and routine, offer quiet space if overstimulated, use visual schedules for sequences

visual impairment

Use verbal descriptions of all poses, provide physical guidance for positioning, ensure good lighting

hearing impairment

Use visual demonstrations clearly, provide written instructions if helpful, use gesture cues

physical disability

Offer seated or supported versions of poses, adapt balance poses using wall support, focus on achievable movements

Cross-Curricular Links

English

Vocabulary development through pose names, listening skills during stories and instructions

Science

Understanding body parts and balance systems, learning about nature and environmental cycles

Geography

Exploring natural features and phenomena through movement and discussion

PSHE

Developing self-awareness and emotional regulation through yoga practice, environmental responsibility

Teacher Guidance

Positioning

Move around perimeter to observe all students, demonstrate from central position

Observation Focus

Watch for balance improvement, pose alignment, breathing coordination, engagement with themes

Intervention Points

Support struggling students with pose modifications, redirect off-task behaviour gently, ensure all students participate

Demonstration Notes

Show poses clearly from multiple angles, emphasise key alignment points, model breathing patterns audibly

Verbal Cues

•'Breathe like you're smelling flowers'
•'Make your body strong like a mountain'
•'Let your branches sway gently'

Safety Considerations

Space & Surface Requirements

Space Requirements

Indoor space minimum 6m x 6m clear area, mats with 1.5m spacing

Surface Check

Non-slip surface, yoga mats securely positioned, clear of obstacles

Equipment Safety

Safety Checks

•Yoga mats inspected for tears or damage
•Adequate lighting for pose visibility
•Music/audio equipment tested and at appropriate volume

Risk Management

Key Risks

•Falls during balance poses
•Overstretching in poses
•Collisions during movement activities
•Discomfort in floor positions

Risk Mitigation

•Demonstrate all poses before practice
•Emphasise listening to body limits
•Maintain clear spacing between students
•Offer position modifications for comfort

Supervision & Emergency Procedures

Supervision Points

•Position to see all students during balance poses
•Circulate during individual practice
•Monitor breathing and exertion levels

Emergency Procedures

Stop activity immediately, assess any injury, provide appropriate first aid, contact office if needed