Lesson 4 - Mother Earth Yoga Adventure
Adventure Yoga: Body Awareness
•Reception
•Yoga
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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
Arranged in a circle or grid with enough space between each mat
Alternative: Carpet tiles, towels, or designated floor spaces
Prepared and tested before lesson begins
Alternative: Nature sounds, soft instrumental music
Ready for relaxation segment
Alternative: Environmental story or nature-themed book
Key Vocabulary
A standing balance pose on one foot with arms like branches
A pose making a V-shape with hands and feet on the ground
Staying steady and still without falling over
A shape that looks like the letter V
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
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