Lesson 6 - Yoga Benefits and Lifelong Practice
Balance & Breath Wellness
•Year 4
•Yoga
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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
Arranged in rows with adequate spacing for arm extension
Alternative: Towels or carpet squares
Set at low volume to enhance relaxation
Alternative: Quiet environment if no music available
Visible to all students for reference
Alternative: Poster displays or teacher demonstration
Key Vocabulary
A flowing sequence of yoga poses performed in rhythm with breathing
Being fully present and aware of the current moment
A practice of focused attention and awareness to achieve mental clarity
Proper positioning of body parts in yoga poses for safety and effectiveness
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
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