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Lesson 6 - Yoga Benefits and Lifelong Practice

Balance & Breath Wellness

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Year 4

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Yoga

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45 min

Big Question

How can yoga improve our physical and mental wellbeing, and how can we continue practising beyond school?

Learning Objectives

To articulate the physical and mental benefits of yoga practice
To demonstrate confident execution of a variety of yoga poses with proper breathing
To understand how to continue enjoying yoga outside of school

Key Outcomes

Students will be able to explain at least three benefits of yoga practice
Students will perform a complete sun salutation sequence independently
Students will identify ways to continue yoga practice at home or in the community

Equipment & Resources Required

Yoga Mat

1 per student (30)

Arranged in rows with adequate spacing for arm extension

Alternative: Towels or carpet squares

Background Music

1 speaker system

Set at low volume to enhance relaxation

Alternative: Quiet environment if no music available

Cards

1 set

Visible to all students for reference

Alternative: Poster displays or teacher demonstration

Key Vocabulary

Sun Salutation

A flowing sequence of yoga poses performed in rhythm with breathing

Mindfulness

Being fully present and aware of the current moment

Meditation

A practice of focused attention and awareness to achieve mental clarity

Alignment

Proper positioning of body parts in yoga poses for safety and effectiveness

Flow

Smooth, continuous movement between yoga poses

Skill Progression Pathway

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

Prior Learning

Basic yoga poses from previous lessons
Understanding of breathing techniques
Ability to follow movement sequences

Current Skills

Comprehensive pose repertoire
Understanding of yoga benefits
Independent practice planning

Next Steps

Creating personal yoga routines
Teaching poses to others
Exploring different yoga styles

Milestone Indicators

Smooth transitions between poses

Coordinated breathing with movement

Confident demonstration of poses

Key Teaching Points

Emphasise comfort and safety over perfect pose execution
Model mindful breathing and demonstrate its calming effects
Create inclusive environment where all abilities are celebrated
Connect yoga practice to emotional wellbeing and self-care
Encourage personal reflection and individual goal setting
Provide practical strategies for continuing yoga practice at home
Use positive affirmations to build confidence and self-esteem

Common Misconceptions

Yoga requires extreme flexibility - emphasise that yoga improves flexibility gradually
Poses must look perfect - focus on individual comfort and effort
Yoga is only for relaxation - highlight strength and balance benefits
Breathing doesn't matter - demonstrate how breath enhances every pose
Yoga is too slow/boring - show how challenging balance and strength poses can be

SEN Adaptations

ADHD

Movement breaks between poses, fidget-friendly modifications, clear start/stop signals

dyspraxia

Simplified pose instructions, extra demonstration time, focus on effort over precision

autism spectrum

Predictable routine structure, quiet relaxation space available, clear visual schedules

visual impairment

Detailed verbal descriptions of poses, tactile guidance for positioning, buddy system for spatial awareness

hearing impairment

Clear visual demonstrations, written pose cards, visual breathing cues and timing signals

physical disability

Chair-based yoga modifications, upper body focus poses, adaptive equipment as needed

Cross-Curricular Links

English

Vocabulary development, descriptive language, discussion and reflection skills

Maths

Counting breaths and repetitions, understanding sequences and patterns

Science

Understanding body systems, breathing and circulation, effects of exercise on body

PSHE

Self-awareness, emotional regulation, mindfulness practices, positive self-image

Teacher Guidance

Positioning

Move around the space to observe all students, position for clear demonstration visibility

Observation Focus

Monitor pose alignment, breathing patterns, comfort levels, and engagement

Intervention Points

Step in if students struggling with balance, forcing poses, or showing discomfort

Demonstration Notes

Demonstrate: Show modifications alongside main poses, emphasise breath coordination

Verbal Cues

•'Listen to your body - it knows what's right for you!'
•'Breathe deeply and let your breath guide your movement!'
•'Every body is different - find what works for yours!'

Safety Considerations

Space & Surface Requirements

Space Requirements

Indoor space minimum 6m x 8m with non-slip surface, adequate ventilation

Surface Check

Non-slip yoga mats or carpet area, free from obstacles and hazards

Equipment Safety

Safety Checks

•Yoga mats in good condition without tears or slippery surfaces
•Adequate spacing between students for full arm extension
•Clear pathways for movement between poses

Risk Management

Key Risks

•Overstraining in poses beyond comfortable range
•Loss of balance during standing poses
•Wrist strain during weight-bearing poses
•Neck injury from forced stretching

Risk Mitigation

•Emphasis on comfort over achievement in poses
•Clear instructions about never forcing poses
•Walls available for balance support when needed
•Modifications offered for all poses

Supervision & Emergency Procedures

Supervision Points

•Monitor pose depth and individual comfort levels
•Watch for signs of overexertion or discomfort
•Ensure proper knee safety in balance poses

Emergency Procedures

Stop activity immediately for any pain or discomfort, provide appropriate first aid or support