Lesson 1 - Jungle Animal Yoga Poses
Stories & Breathing Practices
•Year 1
•Yoga
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How can we move like jungle animals whilst staying calm and focused?
Learning Objectives
- To perform yoga poses inspired by jungle animals
- To control breathing patterns during movement
- To understand the importance of focus and mindfulness in yoga
Key Outcomes
- Students will demonstrate at least 5 jungle animal yoga poses with correct form
- Students will use controlled breathing throughout the session
- Students will show improved focus and concentration during poses
Equipment & Resources Required
Arranged in grid pattern with 2m spacing between each mat
Alternative: Carpet squares, blankets for comfort
Volume low enough for teacher instructions to be heard clearly
Alternative: Nature sounds app, or work in silence
Large enough for whole class to see from their mats
Alternative: Hand-drawn images, animal toys as visual aids
Key Vocabulary
A position that you hold your body in during yoga
Taking air in through your nose and out through your mouth
Giving all your attention to what you are doing
Staying steady without falling over
Being aware of your body and breathing
Skill Progression Pathway
Understanding where pupils are coming from and where they're going
Prior Learning
- Basic body awareness and control
- Following simple instructions
- Understanding of breathing
Current Skills
- Jungle animal yoga poses
- Controlled breathing techniques
- Mindful focus and concentration
Next Steps
- Linking poses into flowing sequences
- Advanced balance poses
- Partner yoga poses
Milestone Indicators
Key Teaching Points
- Every body is different - encourage personal best rather than comparison
- Breathing is as important as the physical pose
- It's normal to wobble in balance poses - this is how we learn
- Never force poses - yoga should feel good
- Create a calm, supportive atmosphere for all students
- Use animal imagery to make poses engaging and memorable
- End with relaxation to reinforce mindfulness benefits
Common Misconceptions
- Misconception: 'I have to touch my toes in forward fold' - Correction: 'Bend your knees as much as you need, the stretch should feel good'
- Misconception: 'I'm bad at yoga because I can't balance' - Correction: 'Wobbling means your body is learning, every time you try you get stronger'
- Misconception: 'Yoga is only stretching' - Correction: 'Yoga helps our minds stay calm and focused as well as keeping our bodies flexible and strong'
- Misconception: 'I have to be quiet all the time in yoga' - Correction: 'We can make sounds like lion roars when it's part of the pose, but we listen carefully when learning'
- Misconception: 'My pose has to look exactly like the teacher's' - Correction: 'Everyone's body is different, your pose is perfect for your body'
SEN Adaptations
ADHD
- Short pose holds, frequent position changes, clear boundaries, movement breaks within structure
dyspraxia
- Extra time for positioning, simplified instructions, physical support for balance, focus on effort not perfection
autism spectrum
- Predictable routine, visual schedule of poses, quiet space available, advance warning of position changes
visual impairment
- Use clear verbal descriptions of poses, tactile guidance for positioning, consistent mat placement
hearing impairment
- Visual demonstrations of all poses, use of picture cards, clear visual cues for breathing
physical disability
- Seated versions of all poses, chair support for balance poses, modified positions as needed
Cross-Curricular Links
English
Descriptive vocabulary for animals, following instructions, creative storytelling
Science
Body systems, breathing and circulation, animal habitats and characteristics
Art
Animal movements and shapes, body positions in art, creative expression through movement
Geography
Jungle environments, animals from different continents, climate and habitats
PSHE
Self-awareness, managing emotions, mindfulness and concentration, personal challenges
Teacher Guidance
Positioning
Move around class during poses to provide individual guidance and ensure safety
Observation Focus
Watch for proper alignment, controlled breathing, and signs of strain
Intervention Points
Step in if students forcing poses, showing signs of dizziness, or unsafe positioning
Demonstration Notes
Always demonstrate poses clearly, showing modifications, and emphasising that every body is different
Verbal Cues
- •'Breathe slowly and deeply'
- •'Only go as far as feels good'
- •'It's okay to wobble - that's how we learn balance'
Safety Considerations
Space & Surface Requirements
Space Requirements
Minimum 6m x 8m, clear of obstacles with yoga mats
Surface Check
Non-slip mats on stable floor, adequate cushioning for floor work
Equipment Safety
Safety Checks
- •Check mats are clean and not slippery
- •Ensure adequate spacing between students
- •Remove any jewelry that could catch or cause injury
Risk Management
Key Risks
- •Falls during balance poses
- •Overstretching in poses
- •Collision with others during movements
Risk Mitigation
- •Wall support available for balance poses
- •Emphasis on personal limits, no forcing
- •Clear spacing guidelines and movement rules
- •Proper warm-up before challenging poses
Supervision & Emergency Procedures
Supervision Points
- •Position to see all students during poses
- •Monitor for signs of strain or discomfort
- •Check proper alignment in weight-bearing poses
Emergency Procedures
Stop activity immediately, assess any injury, provide appropriate first aid or seek medical attention