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Lesson 3 - Body Control and Mindful Movement

Inner Strength & Calm

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Year 3

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Yoga

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45 min

Big Question

How can we use our breath and body awareness to stay calm and focused?

Learning Objectives

To develop control and isolation of different body parts through yoga poses
To practice concentration techniques and avoid distraction during mindful movement
To build self-motivation and physical confidence through breathing and relaxation

Key Outcomes

Students will demonstrate controlled movement in yoga poses
Students will maintain focus during breathing exercises and meditation
Students will show increased self-awareness and confidence in their physical abilities

Equipment & Resources Required

Yoga Mat

1 per student (30)

Arranged in grid formation with 1m spacing between mats

Alternative: Towels or carpet squares if mats unavailable

Background Music

1 speaker system

Volume low enough for instructions to be heard clearly

Alternative: None needed - can practice in silence

Key Vocabulary

Mountain Pose

Standing tall with feet hip-width apart, arms by sides, body strong and grounded

Tree Pose

Standing balance pose with one foot placed on the opposite leg

Sun Salutation

A flowing sequence of yoga poses synchronized with breathing

Child's Pose

Resting pose sitting back on heels with forehead touching the ground

Mindfulness

Paying attention to the present moment and how your body feels

Gratitude

Feeling thankful and appreciative for positive things in your life

Skill Progression Pathway

Understanding where pupils are coming from and where they're going

Prior Learning

Basic body awareness and spatial understanding
Simple breathing techniques from previous yoga sessions
Understanding of personal space and safety

Current Skills

Advanced breathing coordination with movement
Body part isolation and controlled movement
Sustained concentration and mindfulness

Next Steps

Complex yoga sequences with partner work
Leading others through guided relaxation
Creating personal yoga routines

Milestone Indicators

Smooth transitions between poses without losing balance

Maintaining breath awareness throughout sequences

Demonstrating sustained focus during meditation

Key Teaching Points

Safety first - all poses should be comfortable, never forced
Breath awareness is more important than perfect pose alignment
Model peaceful, calm demeanor throughout the lesson
Emphasise personal practice rather than comparison with others
Create inclusive environment where all abilities are welcomed
Use gratitude practice to develop positive mindset and emotional regulation
Connect physical practice with mental well-being and concentration

Common Misconceptions

Flexibility is required for yoga - emphasise that yoga develops flexibility gradually
Poses must look exactly like demonstrations - focus on personal best effort
Yoga is just stretching - explain mind-body connection and breathing benefits
Everyone should be able to balance easily - normalize wobbling and using modifications
Meditation means clearing all thoughts - teach that noticing thoughts is part of practice

SEN Adaptations

ADHD

Frequent position changes, clear movement cues, emphasis on breath focus for attention

dyspraxia

Simplified pose variations, extra practice time, peer buddy system for support

autism spectrum

Clear routine structure, visual schedule of poses, quiet corner available for breaks

visual impairment

Clear verbal descriptions of all poses, partner guidance for positioning, tactile cues for alignment

hearing impairment

Visual demonstrations from multiple angles, written instruction cards, sign language if appropriate

physical disability

Chair-based modifications for all poses, alternative props for support, focus on achievable movements

Cross-Curricular Links

English

Following detailed instructions, vocabulary development, expressing feelings

Maths

Counting breaths, timing holds, spatial awareness and positioning

Science

Understanding body systems, effects of breathing on heart rate, balance and coordination

PSHE

Emotional regulation, self-awareness, gratitude practice, respectful relationships

Teacher Guidance

Positioning

Centre front for demonstrations, circulate during practice for individual support

Observation Focus

Watch for safe alignment, breathing patterns, concentration levels, and respectful interaction

Intervention Points

Step in if poses look unsafe, breathing becomes laboured, or group activities become inappropriate

Demonstration Notes

Model all poses clearly from multiple angles, emphasise modifications, maintain calm peaceful demeanor throughout

Verbal Cues

•'Listen to your body'
•'Breathe slowly and deeply'
•'Only go as far as feels comfortable'
•'Remember to be gentle with yourself and others'

Safety Considerations

Space & Surface Requirements

Space Requirements

Minimum 30m x 20m clear space, non-slip surface preferred

Surface Check

Clean, dry, non-slip surface free from obstacles and hazards

Equipment Safety

Safety Checks

•Yoga mats clean and in good condition
•Adequate spacing between mats for movement
•Music volume appropriate for hearing instructions

Risk Management

Key Risks

•Slips during poses on smooth surfaces
•Knee or back strain in seated poses
•Loss of balance during standing poses
•Inappropriate touch during group massage

Risk Mitigation

•Use yoga mats or towels for grip and cushioning
•Teach modifications for all poses
•Emphasise listening to body and stopping if uncomfortable
•Clear guidelines for appropriate touch and consent

Supervision & Emergency Procedures

Supervision Points

•Position for visibility of all students during poses
•Monitor closely during balance challenges
•Circulate during group activities to ensure appropriate behaviour

Emergency Procedures

Stop activity immediately if injury occurs, assess need for first aid, have clear path to exit