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Lesson 6 - Animal Flow & Breath

Mind-Body Connection

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Year 2

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Yoga

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45 min

Big Question

How can we move like animals while staying calm and controlled with our breathing?

Learning Objectives

To show control in an animal flow sequence
To move with control and in time with breath
To teach others a self-created sequence

Key Outcomes

Students will demonstrate controlled animal yoga poses with coordinated breathing
Students will create and teach their own animal flow sequences to peers
Students will show awareness of breath sensations during mindful activities

Equipment & Resources Required

Yoga Mat

1 per student (30)

Arranged in circle formation for group activities

Alternative: Towels or carpet squares

Flow Sequence Cards

1 set per pair

Distributed to pairs during skill development

Alternative: Picture cards of animals in yoga poses

Background Music

Audio system

Track 34 'Breathe' playing softly throughout

Alternative: Mindfulness app sounds

Cards

Multiple sets available

Available for reference during pair work

Alternative: Laminated animal pictures

Key Vocabulary

Flow

Moving smoothly from one yoga pose to the next without stopping

Namaste

A respectful greeting meaning 'I bow to you' with hands in prayer position

Down Dog

An upside-down V shape with hands and feet on ground

Breath Awareness

Noticing how breathing feels in your body

Sequence

A series of yoga poses linked together in order

Skill Progression Pathway

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

Prior Learning

Basic yoga poses from previous lessons
Understanding of slow, controlled movements
Experience with partner work

Current Skills

Fluid movement between poses
Breath awareness and control
Creating and teaching sequences

Next Steps

More complex flowing sequences
Advanced breathing techniques
Independent mindfulness practice

Milestone Indicators

Smooth transitions between poses

Coordinated breathing with movement

Clear teaching of sequences to others

Key Teaching Points

Emphasise slow, flowing movement like moving through honey
Connect animal sounds with breathing for mindfulness and engagement
Support partner cooperation and peer teaching opportunities
Maintain calm, respectful atmosphere throughout with consistent opening/closing rituals
Focus on breath awareness as foundation for all yoga practice
Encourage creativity while maintaining safe, controlled movement
Model perfect pose alignment and provide individual guidance

Common Misconceptions

That yoga poses must be perfect rather than focused on effort and improvement
That breathing should be forced rather than natural and flowing
That animal sounds are silly rather than helpful for breathing and engagement
That sequences must be complex rather than simple and well-executed
That mindfulness time is for sleeping rather than aware, calm breathing

SEN Adaptations

ADHD

Shorter sequences initially, movement breaks between static poses, clear boundaries for partner work

dyspraxia

Simplified pose sequences, extra time for coordination, visual reference cards for pose positions

autism spectrum

Clear visual schedule of lesson activities, quiet space available if needed, consistent routine with opening and closing

visual impairment

Use tactile guidance for pose positioning, provide verbal descriptions of all poses, buddy system for support

hearing impairment

Use visual demonstrations of breathing patterns, written pose instruction cards, visual cues for timing

physical disability

Seated modifications of all poses, upper body versions of animal movements, adapted breathing exercises

Cross-Curricular Links

English

Vocabulary development through animal names, descriptive language for movement qualities, speaking and listening during teaching

Maths

Counting breathing patterns, sequencing poses in order, timing and rhythm in flows

Science

Body systems during exercise, breathing and circulation, animal classification and characteristics

PSHE

Self-awareness through mindfulness, cooperation and respect in partner work, managing emotions through breathing

Teacher Guidance

Positioning

Move around circle during activities, central position for demonstrations, close proximity during mindfulness

Observation Focus

Monitor breathing coordination, pose quality, partner cooperation, and engagement with mindfulness aspects

Intervention Points

Step in if students rush through sequences, struggle with breathing coordination, or need support with partner work

Demonstration Notes

Model perfect poses with clear animal sounds, show breath coordination visibly, demonstrate respectful teaching methods

Verbal Cues

•'Flow like honey, slow and smooth'
•'Breathe in through your nose, out with animal sounds'
•'Help your partner get the pose just right'
•'Hold your pose while you make your animal sound'

Safety Considerations

Space & Surface Requirements

Space Requirements

Large indoor space with adequate room for all students to lie down with arms extended

Surface Check

Clean, non-slip surface suitable for barefoot movement

Equipment Safety

Safety Checks

•Check yoga mats are clean and securely positioned
•Ensure mats don't slip on floor surface
•Verify audio equipment volume appropriate for mindful activities

Risk Management

Key Risks

•Slipping on unsecured mats
•Overexertion in poses
•Collision during movement activities

Risk Mitigation

•Ensure adequate spacing between students
•Emphasise slow, controlled movements throughout
•Monitor for any signs of discomfort or dizziness
•Provide alternative positions for those with physical limitations

Supervision & Emergency Procedures

Supervision Points

•Position for visibility of all students during floor work
•Move around space during partner work to offer support
•Pay particular attention during transitions between lying and standing

Emergency Procedures

Stop activity immediately if any student shows signs of distress, provide appropriate support and follow school first aid procedures