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Lesson 6 - Breathing & Mindful Movement

Stories & Breathing Practices

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Year 1

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Yoga

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45 min

Big Question

How can breathing in three parts help us focus our minds and calm our bodies?

Learning Objectives

To practice 3-part breathing technique with control and awareness
To perform yoga poses with focus and mindful attention
To demonstrate sporting values of concentration and perseverance

Key Outcomes

Students will breathe using the 3-part technique with increasing control
Students will hold yoga poses while maintaining focus on their breathing
Students will show improved concentration and mindful awareness

Equipment & Resources Required

Yoga Mat

1 per student (30)

Arranged in rows with arm's width spacing between mats

Alternative: Towels or carpet squares for comfort

Background Music

1 device

Volume low enough for clear instruction hearing

Alternative: Nature sounds or silence

Storybook

For relaxation session at lesson end

Alternative: Any calming sea-themed story

Cards

1 set

Large enough for all students to see clearly

Alternative: Teacher demonstration only

Key Vocabulary

3-part breathing

Breathing that fills the belly, chest, and shoulders in sequence

Mindful

Paying careful attention to what you are doing right now

Focus

Concentrating your attention on one thing

Mountain pose

Standing tall and strong like a mountain

Forward fold

Bending forward from the hips while keeping legs straight

Skill Progression Pathway

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

Prior Learning

Basic body awareness and movement control
Simple breathing techniques
Following instructions and working quietly

Current Skills

3-part breathing technique development
Sustained focus and concentration skills
Mindful movement and body control

Next Steps

Extended breathing sequences
More challenging balance poses
Teaching breathing techniques to others

Milestone Indicators

Can demonstrate belly, chest, and shoulder breathing

Maintains focus during pose sequences

Shows self-regulation through breathing

Key Teaching Points

3-part breathing should never be forced - always natural and comfortable
Balance poses naturally involve wobbling - this is part of the learning
Focus on personal progress rather than comparison with others
Coordinate movement with breath awareness throughout lesson
Maintain calm, peaceful energy that supports mindfulness practice
Connect breathing techniques to real-life emotional regulation
Use encouraging language that supports self-acceptance

Common Misconceptions

Thinking yoga poses must look perfect - emphasise that everyone's body is different
Believing breathing exercises should be forced or dramatic - teach gentle, natural breathing
Expecting immediate mastery of balance poses - explain that wobbling is normal learning
Thinking quiet concentration means no thoughts - teach that wandering minds are normal
Believing flexibility is required for yoga - focus on personal range of motion

SEN Adaptations

ADHD

Shorter concentration periods initially, movement breaks between poses, fidget tools if helpful

dyspraxia

Extra time for pose positioning, simplified sequences, focus on effort over perfection

autism spectrum

Clear routine and structure, visual schedule of poses, quiet space available if needed

visual impairment

Use verbal descriptions for all poses, provide physical guidance for positioning, partner support for balance

hearing impairment

Visual demonstrations of poses, written instruction cards, use of sign language if known

physical disability

Seated versions of all poses, chair yoga adaptations, focus on accessible breathing techniques

Cross-Curricular Links

English

Listening to stories, learning new vocabulary, following instructions

Maths

Counting breaths, timing holds, understanding sequences and patterns

Science

Learning about breathing, lungs, and how the body needs oxygen for movement

PSHE

Emotional regulation, self-awareness, mindfulness, and managing feelings

Teacher Guidance

Positioning

Move around class during poses to check technique, stand centrally during breathing instruction

Observation Focus

Watch for correct breathing technique, safe pose alignment, signs of frustration or fatigue

Intervention Points

Step in if breathing becomes forced, offer support for difficult poses, redirect attention gently during concentration

Demonstration Notes

Model calm energy throughout, demonstrate all poses clearly, show 3-part breathing with visible hand movements

Verbal Cues

•'Breathe naturally and calmly'
•'Wobbling is perfectly normal in balance poses'
•'Focus on your own practice, not others'
•'If your mind wanders, gently return to your breath'

Safety Considerations

Space & Surface Requirements

Space Requirements

Indoor hall minimum 8m x 8m, or outdoor flat grassy area if dry

Surface Check

Non-slip surface, mats provide cushioning for floor work

Equipment Safety

Safety Checks

•Check mats are clean and positioned securely
•Ensure adequate spacing between students for movement
•Music volume appropriate for hearing instructions

Risk Management

Key Risks

•Falls during balance poses
•Hyperventilation from breathing exercises
•Dizziness from forward folds or lying down

Risk Mitigation

•Wall support available for balance poses
•Emphasise normal, controlled breathing - never forced
•Slow transitions between poses, especially standing up
•Teacher circulates to monitor breathing technique

Supervision & Emergency Procedures

Supervision Points

•Position to see all students during balance poses
•Monitor breathing exercises for signs of dizziness
•Watch for fatigue during concentration periods

Emergency Procedures

Stop activity immediately if any student feels unwell, ensure student sits down calmly, provide water if needed