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Lesson 3 - Space Travel Poses and Mindfulness

Mindful Creative Movement

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Year 2

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Yoga

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56 min

Big Question

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

Yoga Mat

1 per student (30)

Arranged in rows with space between for arm movements

Alternative: Towels or designated floor spaces

Background Music

1 speaker system

Volume low enough to hear instructions clearly

Alternative: No music - silence can be equally effective

Books

Ready for conclusion reading session

Alternative: Pre-recorded story or teacher narration

Key Vocabulary

Mountain Pose

Standing tall with feet together, arms by sides, body strong and still like a mountain

Tree Pose

Balancing on one foot with the other foot placed against the standing leg

Deep Breathing

Slow, controlled breathing in through the nose and out through the mouth

Child's Pose

Kneeling position with forehead on floor and arms relaxed, like resting

Prayer Pose

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

Holds poses for 5+ seconds with steady breathing

Moves smoothly between poses without losing balance

Demonstrates self-awareness and emotional regulation

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