🧘

Lesson 2 - Yoga Pose Control

Mind-Body Connection

•

Year 2

•

Yoga

•

53 min

Big Question

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

Yoga Mat

1 per student (30)

Arrange in grid formation with adequate spacing between each mat

Alternative: Towels or marked floor spaces

Track

Test audio system before lesson begins

Alternative: Live counting by teacher or metronome

Sun Salutation Story

1 for teacher

Have document accessible for reference during warm-up

Alternative: Teacher can tell story from memory

Cards

10 sets (for groups of 3)

Pre-sort cards into sets for easy distribution to groups

Alternative: Teacher demonstration or printed pose images

Key Vocabulary

Namaste

A respectful greeting meaning 'I bow to you'

Flow

A smooth sequence of connected yoga poses

Sun Salutation

A traditional sequence of yoga poses that flows together

Pose

A specific body position held during yoga practice

Mindfulness

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

Students can hold poses for specified breath counts

Students demonstrate smooth transitions between poses

Students show improved balance and concentration

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.