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Lesson 2 - Breath and Balance

Inner Strength Development

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Year 4

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Yoga

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45 min

Big Question

How can controlling our breath help us find balance and calm in our bodies and minds?

Learning Objectives

To develop flexibility and strength through yoga poses
To understand how breathing supports balance and focus
To create and perform flowing sequences of yoga movements

Key Outcomes

Students will hold yoga poses with improved balance and control
Students will coordinate breathing with movement patterns
Students will work cooperatively to create flowing sequences

Equipment & Resources Required

Yoga Mat

1 per student (30)

Arranged in rows with adequate space between for movement

Alternative: Towels or carpet squares for grip and comfort

Background Music

1 audio system

Volume set low enough for clear instruction delivery

Alternative: Nature sounds or instrumental music app

Cards

5 sets for group work

One set per group of 6 students, laminated for durability

Alternative: Printed pictures or demonstration by teacher

Sun Salutation Story

1 for teacher reference

Available for teacher to guide narrative

Alternative: Visual sequence chart or teacher demonstration

Key Vocabulary

Namaste

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

Sun Salutation

A flowing sequence of yoga poses traditionally performed to honour the sun

Flow

A series of yoga poses linked together with breath and movement

Pranayama

The practice of controlled breathing in yoga

Balance

The ability to maintain stability while holding a position

Mindfulness

The practice of being fully present and aware in the moment

Skill Progression Pathway

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

Prior Learning

Basic body awareness and spatial understanding
Simple balance activities from previous PE lessons
Understanding of following instructions and safety

Current Skills

Holding static yoga poses with breath control
Moving between poses in flowing sequences
Working cooperatively to create group flows

Next Steps

More complex yoga sequences and transitions
Advanced breathing techniques
Independent practice and peer teaching

Milestone Indicators

Students can hold a balance pose for 30 seconds

Breathing remains controlled during challenging poses

Students demonstrate improved flexibility over time

Key Teaching Points

Always emphasise breathing as the foundation of yoga practice
Encourage students to work within their comfortable range - no forcing
Model calm, peaceful demeanour throughout the lesson
Use positive, inclusive language that celebrates effort over perfection
Connect physical poses to emotional benefits like calmness and focus
Maintain the spiritual aspects of yoga while keeping it accessible
Ensure safety through proper progression and constant supervision

Common Misconceptions

Yoga is only about flexibility - emphasise strength, balance, and mental benefits
Poses must look 'perfect' - focus on personal progress and breath awareness
Yoga is too easy or boring - highlight the challenge of breath control and balance
Only girls or certain body types can do yoga - show adaptations for all students
Breathing doesn't matter - demonstrate how breath improves performance and calm

SEN Adaptations

ADHD

Shorter activity segments, movement breaks, clear physical boundaries, fidget alternatives during seated reflection time

dyspraxia

Simplified pose sequences, extra practice time, visual aids for body positioning, peer buddy support for coordination

autism spectrum

Predictable routine structure, clear visual schedules, quiet corners available, sensory break options, advance warning of transitions

visual impairment

Detailed verbal descriptions of poses, tactile guidance for positioning, partner support for balance poses, audio cues for breathing

hearing impairment

Clear visual demonstrations, written pose cards with pictures, vibration cues for timing, visual breathing patterns

physical disability

Chair-supported modifications, adapted range of motion, focus on achievable movements, alternative poses for limited mobility

Cross-Curricular Links

English

Following complex instructions, learning Sanskrit vocabulary, describing physical sensations and emotional responses

Maths

Counting breath patterns, timing sequences, understanding angles in poses, measuring flexibility improvements over time

Science

Learning about the respiratory system, how breathing affects heart rate, and understanding muscle function during stretching

Geography

Learning about yoga's origins in India, understanding different cultural approaches to health and wellbeing

PSHE

Developing self-awareness, managing emotions through breathing, building empathy and cooperation in group work

Teacher Guidance

Positioning

Start at front for demonstrations, then circulate during group work while maintaining overview of whole class

Observation Focus

Monitor breathing patterns, pose alignment, group cooperation, and signs of fatigue or discomfort

Intervention Points

Step in if unsafe pose attempts, breathing difficulties, group conflicts, or emotional distress observed

Demonstration Notes

Always demonstrate poses yourself, showing modifications and emphasising breathing. Use calm, soothing voice throughout

Verbal Cues

•'Breathe like you're smelling flowers and blowing out candles'
•'Strong roots, tall tree - ground through your standing leg'
•'Move like honey - slow and smooth'
•'Focus your eyes on one still point to help your balance'

Safety Considerations

Space & Surface Requirements

Space Requirements

Large indoor space (hall/gymnasium) minimum 10m x 15m, clean, obstacle-free floor suitable for lying down

Surface Check

Clean, non-slip surface free from debris, comfortable temperature for minimal clothing movement

Equipment Safety

Safety Checks

•Yoga mats checked for tears or slippery surfaces
•Adequate spacing between mats (minimum 2m each direction)
•Music at appropriate volume for instruction audibility

Risk Management

Key Risks

•Falls during balance poses
•Muscle strain from overstretching
•Collisions during group movement
•Dizziness from breathing exercises

Risk Mitigation

•Wall support available for balance poses
•Emphasis on working within comfortable range
•Clear boundaries for group work areas
•Gradual progression in breathing exercises

Supervision & Emergency Procedures

Supervision Points

•Position for clear view of all students during poses
•Circulate during group work to monitor technique
•Watch for signs of overexertion or discomfort

Emergency Procedures

Stop activity immediately if injury occurs, assess need for first aid, have alternative activities for students unable to participate