Lesson 8 - Breath-Flow Integration
Mind-Body Connection
•Year 2
•Yoga
•Start Planning Better PE Lessons
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How can we use our breath to guide our movement and create calm, controlled yoga flows?
Learning Objectives
- I can copy a yoga flow, changing my breath to match the poses
- I can link actions together smoothly with breath awareness
- I can move with control and in time with my breathing rhythm
Key Outcomes
- Students will demonstrate coordinated movement with breathing patterns
- Students will show improved body awareness and mindfulness
- Students will be able to perform flowing sequences with control
Equipment & Resources Required
Arranged in circle formation with space for movement around each mat
Alternative: Towels, carpet squares, or marked floor spaces
Pre-loaded with Track 34 'Breathe' and other calming yoga music
Alternative: Bluetooth speaker, tablet with speaker
Large, clear images of cat, cow, lion, snake, elephant, bird
Alternative: Printed pictures or teacher demonstrations
Visible to all students for breathing activities
Alternative: Sand timer, phone timer with gentle sound
Key Vocabulary
A greeting that means 'I bow to you' - showing respect
Moving smoothly from one yoga pose to another
Breathing air into your lungs through your nose
Breathing air out of your lungs through your mouth or nose
Paying attention to the present moment and how we feel
A special mat that gives us grip and comfort for yoga
Skill Progression Pathway
Understanding where pupils are coming from and where they're going
Prior Learning
- Basic yoga poses from previous lessons
- Understanding of breathing in and out
- Ability to follow simple movement instructions
Current Skills
- Coordinating breath with movement
- Creating flowing sequences
- Leading others in poses
- Advanced breathing techniques
Next Steps
- Complex yoga sequences
- Partner yoga poses
- Independent mindfulness practice
- Teaching yoga to others
Milestone Indicators
Key Teaching Points
- Breathing is the foundation of all yoga movement
- Every body is different - modify poses to fit individual needs
- Mindfulness means paying attention to the present moment
- Respect and kindness create a safe practice environment
- Consistent practice builds strength, flexibility, and calm
- Yoga is about feeling good in your body, not perfect poses
- Breath awareness can help with emotions and concentration
Common Misconceptions
- Yoga poses must look exactly like the teacher's - correct by emphasising individual body differences
- Breathing faster makes you stronger - teach slow, controlled breathing
- You must be flexible to do yoga - explain yoga develops flexibility over time
- Mindfulness means empty mind - clarify it means focused, aware attention
- Perfect poses are the goal - emphasise feeling good and breathing well
SEN Adaptations
ADHD
- Incorporate movement breaks, use visual and auditory cues, provide clear expectations and boundaries
dyspraxia
- Break down movements into smaller steps, provide extra practice time, use visual guides for pose alignment
autism spectrum
- Provide clear visual schedule, offer quiet space options, use consistent routine and structure
visual impairment
- Use clear verbal descriptions of poses, provide tactile guidance, use audio cues for breathing patterns
hearing impairment
- Use visual demonstrations and gestures, provide written pose cards, use visual timers
physical disability
- Offer seated versions of all poses, adapt breathing exercises for individual needs, provide supportive equipment
Cross-Curricular Links
English
Vocabulary development with feeling words, following multi-step instructions, speaking and listening skills
Maths
Counting breath patterns, timing holds, understanding sequences and patterns
Science
Understanding respiratory system, exploring how breathing affects heart rate and body functions
PSHE
Emotional regulation, mindfulness, respect for self and others, building confidence
Teacher Guidance
Positioning
Move around circle perimeter to observe all students, return to centre for demonstrations
Observation Focus
Breath quality, pose alignment, emotional state, peer interactions
Intervention Points
Step in if students struggling with breathing, showing signs of distress, or unsafe in poses
Demonstration Notes
Model perfect posture and breathing, show modifications for different abilities, maintain calm, peaceful energy throughout
Verbal Cues
- •'Breathe like peaceful ocean waves'
- •'Let your body be soft but strong'
- •'Notice how your body feels right now'
Safety Considerations
Space & Surface Requirements
Space Requirements
Minimum 20m x 15m clear space with soft flooring or mats
Surface Check
Non-slip surface, check for obstacles or hazards in movement area
Equipment Safety
Safety Checks
- •Check yoga mats are clean and non-slip
- •Ensure audio equipment volume is appropriate
- •Verify visual cards are laminated and safe
Risk Management
Key Risks
- •Overexertion in poses
- •Hyperventilation from breathing exercises
- •Emotional overwhelm from mindfulness
- •Slips on mats
Risk Mitigation
- •Emphasise listening to body limits
- •Monitor breathing exercises carefully
- •Provide emotional support and alternatives
- •Ensure mats are positioned safely
Supervision & Emergency Procedures
Supervision Points
- •Position for clear view of all students
- •Monitor breathing exercises closely
- •Watch for signs of discomfort or distress
Emergency Procedures
Stop activity immediately if any student shows distress, provide calm reassurance and appropriate first aid or support