Lesson 3 - Space Travel Poses and Mindfulness
Mindful Creative Movement
•Year 2
•Yoga
•Start Planning Better PE Lessons
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How can we use our bodies and breath to explore the wonders of space while staying calm and focused?
Learning Objectives
- To perform yoga poses inspired by space themes with control and balance
- To use breathing techniques to promote relaxation and focus
- To work imaginatively and without inhibitions in movement exploration
Key Outcomes
- Students will demonstrate a range of yoga poses with improved balance and coordination
- Students will use deep breathing techniques to self-regulate and relax
- Students will create their own space-themed poses showing creativity and confidence
Equipment & Resources Required
Arranged in rows with space between for arm movements
Alternative: Towels or designated floor spaces
Volume low enough to hear instructions clearly
Alternative: No music - silence can be equally effective
Ready for conclusion reading session
Alternative: Pre-recorded story or teacher narration
Key Vocabulary
Standing tall with feet together, arms by sides, body strong and still like a mountain
Balancing on one foot with the other foot placed against the standing leg
Slow, controlled breathing in through the nose and out through the mouth
Kneeling position with forehead on floor and arms relaxed, like resting
Palms pressed together in front of the chest or above the head
Skill Progression Pathway
Understanding where pupils are coming from and where they're going
Prior Learning
- Basic body awareness and simple stretches
- Understanding of personal space
- Ability to follow simple movement instructions
Current Skills
- Static balance poses and breathing coordination
- Imaginative movement and creative expression
- Self-regulation through mindful breathing
Next Steps
- Flowing sequences linking multiple poses
- Partner and group yoga activities
- Independent creation of themed yoga routines
Milestone Indicators
Key Teaching Points
- Always prioritise breath awareness and control throughout all activities
- Emphasise personal practice over comparison with others
- Use space themes consistently to maintain engagement and imagination
- Build poses progressively from simple to complex
- Create calm, supportive environment for risk-taking and growth
- Model mindfulness and emotional regulation throughout lesson
- Encourage creativity while maintaining safety guidelines
Common Misconceptions
- Yoga poses must look 'perfect' - emphasise personal comfort and ability
- Harder poses are better - focus on appropriate challenge for each individual
- Breathing is automatic - teach that conscious breathing enhances practice
- Flexibility is required - show that yoga develops flexibility over time
- Yoga is only about physical poses - include mindfulness and emotional benefits
SEN Adaptations
ADHD
- Include movement breaks, use clear structure, provide individual space markers
dyspraxia
- Break down poses into smaller steps, provide additional practice time, use wall support
autism spectrum
- Provide visual schedule, allow sensory breaks, create quiet corner for overwhelm
visual impairment
- Provide verbal descriptions of all poses, use tactile guidance for positioning, allow partner support
hearing impairment
- Use visual demonstrations, hand signals for breathing, written pose cards with pictures
physical disability
- Modify poses for seated practice, provide chair support, adapt movements to individual abilities
Cross-Curricular Links
English
Vocabulary development through yoga pose names and space terminology
Maths
Counting breaths, timing poses, understanding symmetry in body positions
Science
Learning about space, planets, and solar system through movement themes
PSHE
Emotional regulation, mindfulness, courage, and self-confidence building
Teacher Guidance
Positioning
Move around space to see all students, position near challenging poses for support
Observation Focus
Watch for proper alignment, breathing patterns, and emotional regulation
Intervention Points
Step in if students attempt unsafe poses or show frustration with balance
Demonstration Notes
Demonstrate all poses clearly, show modifications, emphasise breath throughout
Verbal Cues
- •'Breathe slowly and deeply'
- •'Find your strong, steady base'
- •'It's okay if your pose looks different from others'
- •'Focus on your own practice'
Safety Considerations
Space & Surface Requirements
Space Requirements
Minimum 5m x 8m clear space, soft surface preferred
Surface Check
Non-slip surface, free from obstacles, mats or carpet for comfort
Equipment Safety
Safety Checks
- •Yoga mats checked for wear and stability
- •Adequate spacing maintained throughout lesson
- •Story book appropriate for age group
Risk Management
Key Risks
- •Falls during balance poses
- •Overstretching in seated poses
- •Collisions during movement game
Risk Mitigation
- •Progressive skill building from simple to complex poses
- •Emphasis on personal comfort over perfect poses
- •Clear boundaries and spacing guidelines
- •Constant supervision during balance challenges
Supervision & Emergency Procedures
Supervision Points
- •Position to see all students during balance poses
- •Monitor for signs of discomfort or fatigue
- •Stay close during partner finding activities
Emergency Procedures
Stop activity immediately, assess injury, provide appropriate first aid, ensure other students remain safe and calm