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Lesson 1 - Jungle Animal Yoga Poses

Stories & Breathing Practices

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Year 1

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Yoga

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45 min

Big Question

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

Yoga Mat

1 per student (30)

Arranged in grid pattern with 2m spacing between each mat

Alternative: Carpet squares, blankets for comfort

Background Music

1 audio system

Volume low enough for teacher instructions to be heard clearly

Alternative: Nature sounds app, or work in silence

Picture cards of jungle animals

8-10 cards

Large enough for whole class to see from their mats

Alternative: Hand-drawn images, animal toys as visual aids

Key Vocabulary

Pose

A position that you hold your body in during yoga

Breathing

Taking air in through your nose and out through your mouth

Focus

Giving all your attention to what you are doing

Balance

Staying steady without falling over

Mindful

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

Holds poses for recommended duration

Breathing remains steady during poses

Shows improved flexibility and balance

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