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Lesson 6 - Animal Flow Sequences

Mindful Movement & Balance

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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 movement to embody the grace and strength of animals?

Learning Objectives

To improve flexibility and technique in an animal-inspired flow
To develop controlled movement transitions between yoga poses
To understand how breathing enhances yoga practice

Key Outcomes

Students will demonstrate smooth transitions between animal yoga poses
Students will create their own animal flow sequence with 4-5 poses
Students will use breathing techniques to enhance their practice

Equipment & Resources Required

Yoga Mat

1 per student (30)

Arrange in circle formation for group practice

Alternative: Towels or carpet squares if mats unavailable

Cards

5 sets

Distribute around teaching space for reference

Alternative: Printed pictures of yoga poses or tablet with yoga app

PE Equipment

1 speaker system

Positioned centrally for clear audio throughout space

Alternative: Smartphone or tablet with speaker

Background Music

Playlist prepared

Volume low enough for clear instruction delivery

Alternative: Nature sounds or silence if preferred

Key Vocabulary

Namaste

A respectful greeting meaning 'the light in me honours the light in you'

Flow

Moving smoothly from one yoga pose to another

Breathe

Taking slow, controlled breaths through the nose

Pose

A specific body position held in yoga

Flexibility

The ability to move joints and muscles through their full range of motion

Skill Progression Pathway

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

Prior Learning

Basic understanding of personal space
Simple stretching movements
Ability to follow basic instructions

Current Skills

Animal yoga poses and transitions
Controlled breathing techniques
Creating simple movement sequences

Next Steps

More complex yoga sequences
Partner yoga poses
Longer breathing practices

Milestone Indicators

Smooth transitions between poses

Improved flexibility and balance

Calm, focused demeanor during practice

Key Teaching Points

Emphasise breathing awareness throughout all activities
Encourage individual expression while maintaining pose safety
Create inclusive, non-competitive environment where all abilities are celebrated
Model mindful, respectful behaviour and language throughout lesson
Connect movement to animal characteristics for engagement and memory
Focus on process and effort rather than perfect pose achievement
Maintain calm, peaceful energy while keeping students engaged and active

Common Misconceptions

Thinking yoga is just stretching - explain it includes strength, balance, and mindfulness
Believing you need to be flexible to do yoga - emphasise that yoga helps develop flexibility
Assuming poses must look exactly like demonstrations - encourage individual adaptation
Thinking breathing is not important - connect breath to pose effectiveness and relaxation

SEN Adaptations

ADHD

Shorter pose holds initially, movement breaks between sections, clear visual and verbal cues

dyspraxia

Extra time for pose transitions, simplified sequences, wall support for balance poses

autism spectrum

Provide visual schedule of activities, offer quiet space if needed, consistent routine and structure

visual impairment

Use verbal descriptions of poses, tactile guidance, partner support for spatial awareness

hearing impairment

Visual demonstrations of all poses, written instruction cards, sign language if known

physical disability

Chair-based yoga adaptations, use of props and supports, modified poses for limited mobility

Cross-Curricular Links

English

Vocabulary development, following and giving instructions, creative expression through movement

Science

Understanding body systems, breathing and respiratory system, flexibility and muscle function

Geography

Learning about animals from different habitats and continents

PSHE

Mindfulness and emotional regulation, respect for others, body awareness and self-care

Teacher Guidance

Positioning

Move around perimeter of circle to observe all students, demonstrate from centre for maximum visibility

Observation Focus

Watch for proper alignment, controlled movements, and mindful engagement with practice

Intervention Points

Step in if students forcing poses beyond comfort, not breathing properly, or showing disrespectful behaviour

Demonstration Notes

Model all poses with proper alignment, demonstrate modifications, show breathing techniques clearly with audible breath

Verbal Cues

•'Listen to your body'
•'Breathe slowly and deeply'
•'Every body is different'
•'Feel the stretch, don't force it'

Safety Considerations

Space & Surface Requirements

Space Requirements

Minimum 8m x 8m with non-slip surface, adequate ventilation

Surface Check

Clean, dry, non-slip surface with yoga mats properly positioned

Equipment Safety

Safety Checks

•Check yoga mats are clean and not torn
•Ensure pose cards have no sharp edges
•Verify audio equipment volume is appropriate

Risk Management

Key Risks

•Overstretching or forcing flexibility
•Loss of balance in standing poses
•Wrist strain in weight-bearing poses

Risk Mitigation

•Emphasise listening to body signals and not forcing poses
•Provide modifications for all poses
•Ensure adequate spacing between students
•Monitor for proper alignment and technique

Supervision & Emergency Procedures

Supervision Points

•Position for visibility of all students during pose practice
•Watch for signs of overexertion or discomfort
•Monitor transitions between floor and standing poses

Emergency Procedures

Stop activity immediately if injury occurs, assess student, provide appropriate first aid, contact school medical support if needed