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Lesson 6 - Yoga Benefits & Practice

Inner Strength & Calm

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Year 3

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Yoga

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45 min

Big Question

How can yoga help us feel better in our minds and bodies, and how can we use it in our daily lives?

Learning Objectives

To articulate the physical and mental benefits of yoga practice
To demonstrate a sequence of yoga poses with proper breathing techniques
To develop strategies for continuing yoga practice independently

Key Outcomes

Students will be able to explain at least three benefits of yoga
Students will perform yoga poses with correct alignment and breathing
Students will create a personal plan for using yoga outside school

Equipment & Resources Required

Yoga Mat

1 per student (30)

Arrange in rows with 1 metre spacing between mats

Alternative: Towels or carpet squares

Background Music

1 playlist

Volume low enough for voice instructions to be heard clearly

Alternative: Natural sounds or silence

Props

Optional: eye pillows, blankets

Available for final relaxation if desired

Alternative: Small cushions or bean bags

Key Vocabulary

Benefits

The positive effects or advantages something gives us

Meditation

Focusing the mind to achieve a calm, peaceful state

Sequence

A series of poses or movements performed in a specific order

Alignment

The correct positioning of body parts in a yoga pose

Mindfulness

Being fully aware and present in the current moment

Skill Progression Pathway

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

Prior Learning

Basic body awareness and spatial understanding
Simple stretching movements from previous lessons
Understanding of breathing techniques

Current Skills

Identifying physical and mental benefits of yoga
Performing flowing yoga sequences with breath coordination
Developing self-motivation for independent practice

Next Steps

Creating personal yoga routines
Leading yoga sessions for others
Applying mindfulness techniques in other areas

Milestone Indicators

Maintains focus during longer sequences

Shows improved flexibility and balance

Demonstrates self-regulation through breathing

Key Teaching Points

Never force poses - yoga should feel good, not painful
Breathing is more important than perfect pose alignment
Every body is different - modifications are always welcome
Focus on internal awareness rather than external appearance
Relaxation and meditation are skills that improve with practice
Yoga benefits are cumulative - small regular practice is better than occasional long sessions
Create safe, non-judgmental environment for self-exploration

Common Misconceptions

Thinking yoga is only for flexible people - address with modifications and individual progress focus
Believing poses must look perfect - emphasise personal journey over appearance
Assuming meditation means emptying the mind - explain it's about noticing thoughts without judgement
Thinking yoga is too easy or not 'real' exercise - highlight strength and focus requirements
Believing boys can't do yoga - use inclusive language and diverse role models

SEN Adaptations

ADHD

Break longer holds into shorter segments, provide fidget alternatives, use movement breaks

dyspraxia

Give extra demonstration time, use wall support, break complex poses into smaller steps

autism spectrum

Maintain consistent routine, provide visual schedule, offer quiet corner for overwhelm

visual impairment

Provide verbal descriptions of poses, use tactile guidance, ensure clear pathways between mats

hearing impairment

Use visual demonstrations, hand signals, written pose instructions on cards

physical disability

Offer chair-based modifications, adapt poses for wheelchairs, provide additional props for support

Cross-Curricular Links

English

Vocabulary development, following complex instructions, descriptive language for sensations

Maths

Counting breaths, timing holds, spatial awareness and body geometry

Science

Understanding how breathing affects heart rate and stress levels, exploring muscle groups and flexibility

PSHE

Emotional regulation, self-awareness, positive self-talk, managing anxiety and stress

Teacher Guidance

Positioning

Central location during instruction, move among students during practice, return to central for group guidance

Observation Focus

Watch for proper alignment, breathing patterns, engagement level, and any signs of discomfort

Intervention Points

Step in if poses look unsafe, provide individual modifications, offer emotional support during meditation

Demonstration Notes

Model all poses clearly, show modifications, demonstrate breathing visibly, maintain calm presence throughout

Verbal Cues

•'Breathe into the pose'
•'Find your edge, don't force'
•'Notice without judging'
•'Every body is different and perfect'

Safety Considerations

Space & Surface Requirements

Space Requirements

Minimum 8m x 12m clear space for mat layout and movement

Surface Check

Non-slip surface, mats securely placed, adequate cushioning

Equipment Safety

Safety Checks

•Check mats have no tears or slippery surfaces
•Ensure props are clean and in good condition
•Music volume allows for clear instruction hearing

Risk Management

Key Risks

•Over-stretching in poses
•Loss of balance in standing poses
•Neck strain during relaxation

Risk Mitigation

•Emphasise never forcing poses
•Provide wall support for balance poses
•Offer cushions for comfortable lying positions
•Monitor for individual limitations

Supervision & Emergency Procedures

Supervision Points

•Position to observe all students during poses
•Move quietly during meditation segments
•Watch for signs of discomfort or overexertion

Emergency Procedures

Stop activity immediately for any pain or discomfort, provide quiet space for anyone feeling overwhelmed during meditation