Lesson 2 - Yoga Pose Control
Mind-Body Connection
•Year 2
•Yoga
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How can we use our breath to help us control our bodies in yoga poses?
Learning Objectives
- To show control when copying and repeating yoga poses
- To link simple sequences of actions together
- To develop breath awareness and mindful movement
Key Outcomes
- Students will be able to hold yoga poses with control and coordination
- Students will demonstrate the ability to link actions together in flowing sequences
- Students will show improved concentration and breath awareness during mindful activities
Equipment & Resources Required
Arrange in grid formation with adequate spacing between each mat
Alternative: Towels or marked floor spaces
Test audio system before lesson begins
Alternative: Live counting by teacher or metronome
Have document accessible for reference during warm-up
Alternative: Teacher can tell story from memory
Pre-sort cards into sets for easy distribution to groups
Alternative: Teacher demonstration or printed pose images
Key Vocabulary
A respectful greeting meaning 'I bow to you'
A smooth sequence of connected yoga poses
A traditional sequence of yoga poses that flows together
A specific body position held during yoga practice
Paying careful attention to what you're doing and feeling
Skill Progression Pathway
Understanding where pupils are coming from and where they're going
Prior Learning
- Basic body awareness and simple movements
- Ability to follow simple instructions
- Basic understanding of personal space
Current Skills
- Controlled movement and balance
- Coordination of breath with movement
- Concentration and focus during poses
Next Steps
- More complex yoga sequences
- Advanced breathing techniques
- Independent creation of yoga flows
Milestone Indicators
Key Teaching Points
- Always emphasise breath awareness and control throughout the lesson
- Model slow, mindful movement in all transitions and poses
- Encourage students to work within their personal comfort zone
- Create a calm, respectful atmosphere conducive to mindful practice
- Use positive, encouraging language to build confidence
- Focus on process over perfect pose achievement
- Connect poses to imagery and storytelling for engagement
Common Misconceptions
- Yoga poses must look perfect - emphasise personal progress over perfection
- Holding breath makes poses easier - teach continuous breathing throughout
- Yoga is just stretching - explain mindfulness and breath awareness components
- Wobbling means failure - normalize balance challenges as part of learning
- Faster is better - consistently model slow, controlled movements
SEN Adaptations
ADHD
- Shorter pose holds initially, movement breaks between static poses, clear boundaries and expectations
dyspraxia
- Simplified pose sequences, extra practice time, use of wall support for balance poses
autism spectrum
- Clear routine structure, visual schedule of poses, quiet space available if overstimulated
visual impairment
- Clear verbal descriptions of poses, use of tactile guidance, partner support for spatial awareness
hearing impairment
- Visual demonstrations, hand signals for breathing cues, written pose instructions
physical disability
- Chair-based modifications, adapted poses for limited mobility, use of props for support
Cross-Curricular Links
English
Following instructions, learning new vocabulary, descriptive language for poses and feelings
Maths
Counting breath cycles, timing sequences, understanding patterns in flows, measuring balance hold times
Science
Understanding breathing and oxygen, body systems during exercise, balance and centre of gravity
PSHE
Mindfulness and emotional regulation, respect for others, cooperation and teamwork
Teacher Guidance
Positioning
Move around space to observe all students, positioning at front for demonstrations and side for group observations
Observation Focus
Watch for breath control, pose stability, concentration levels and group cooperation
Intervention Points
Step in if students struggling with balance, showing signs of strain, or not participating in groups
Demonstration Notes
Always demonstrate poses with perfect form, emphasise breathing rhythm, show modifications for different abilities
Verbal Cues
- •'Breathe slowly and deeply'
- •'Find a still point to focus on'
- •'Move with control and grace'
- •'Listen to your body'
Safety Considerations
Space & Surface Requirements
Space Requirements
Minimum 8m x 6m clear space, non-slip surface suitable for yoga mats
Surface Check
Ensure floor is clean, dry and level. Check mats are not worn or slippery
Equipment Safety
Safety Checks
- •Inspect yoga mats for tears or damage
- •Ensure audio equipment is safely positioned
- •Check yoga cards have no sharp edges or damage
Risk Management
Key Risks
- •Falls during balance poses
- •Overstretching in poses
- •Dizziness from breathing exercises
- •Collisions during group movement
Risk Mitigation
- •Adequate spacing between mats for safe movement
- •Emphasis on personal limits and comfort
- •Clear boundaries for pose attempts
- •Gentle progression in breathing exercises
Supervision & Emergency Procedures
Supervision Points
- •Position to observe all students during balance poses
- •Monitor breathing exercises for signs of hyperventilation
- •Watch group dynamics for inclusion and safety
Emergency Procedures
Stop activity immediately if student falls or feels unwell. Have first aid accessible. Know location of nearest medical support.