Lesson 5 - Balance Through Yoga Flows
Mindful Movement Flows
•Year 5
•Yoga
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How can controlling our breath and movement help us find perfect balance in challenging poses?
Learning Objectives
- To develop balance through structured yoga flows
- To understand how breath control supports balance and stability
- To demonstrate strength and control whilst holding yoga poses
Key Outcomes
- Students will balance whilst in yoga poses with control
- Students will hold yoga poses with strength and stability for multiple breaths
- Students will transition smoothly between poses whilst maintaining balance
Equipment & Resources Required
Arranged in grid formation with arms-length spacing between mats
Alternative: Towels, carpet squares, marked floor spaces
Keep accessible for quick reference during instruction
Alternative: Printed pose cards, digital display
Volume low enough for clear instruction, creates calming atmosphere
Alternative: Calm instrumental music, nature sounds
Key Vocabulary
A respectful greeting in yoga meaning 'I bow to you'
A sequence of yoga poses that move smoothly from one to another
Standing tall with feet hip-width apart, arms at sides, spine straight
Balancing on one foot with other foot placed on ankle, calf or thigh
Balancing on one leg with body parallel to ground, arms extended
Standing balance holding back foot, reaching forward
Slow, controlled breathing with full awareness
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
- Simple balance activities
Current Skills
- Balance through yoga flows
- Strength and control in poses
- Smooth transitions between poses
Next Steps
- Complex yoga sequences
- Partner yoga poses
- Creating own yoga flows
Milestone Indicators
Key Teaching Points
- Always emphasise breath control throughout all poses and transitions
- Never allow foot placement on the side of the knee joint - ankle, calf or thigh only
- Encourage slow, mindful movement rather than rushing through poses
- Model calm, patient attitude when students struggle with balance
- Create supportive atmosphere where wobbling and falling are part of learning
- Use wall support and modifications to ensure all students can participate
- Maintain focus on the journey rather than perfect pose achievement
Common Misconceptions
- Thinking yoga is only about flexibility - emphasise strength and balance components
- Believing you must be 'good' at poses immediately - stress that wobbling is normal
- Assuming faster movement makes poses easier - explain how slow control improves balance
- Thinking breathing is automatic and doesn't need attention - teach conscious breath awareness
- Believing yoga is not 'real exercise' - highlight the physical challenge and strength required
SEN Adaptations
ADHD
- Regular movement breaks, shorter hold times, fidget tools available during seated work
dyspraxia
- Extra practice time, simplified sequences, step-by-step breakdown of complex movements
autism spectrum
- Clear routine establishment, visual schedule of poses, quiet space option available
visual impairment
- Clear verbal descriptions of poses, partner support system, tactile guidance for positioning
hearing impairment
- Visual demonstration cards, sign language for key poses, written instruction sheets
physical disability
- Chair-adapted poses, seated alternatives, modified expectations for standing balances
Cross-Curricular Links
English
Yoga terminology, following complex instructions, descriptive language for feelings
Maths
Counting breaths, timing sequences, spatial awareness and angles
Science
Understanding body systems, breathing and circulation, forces and balance
PSHE
Mindfulness, emotional regulation, self-awareness, respect for others
Teacher Guidance
Positioning
Move around space to observe all students, demonstrate from central position
Observation Focus
Watch for proper alignment, safe transitions, breathing patterns
Intervention Points
Step in if students struggling with balance, showing poor form, or becoming frustrated
Demonstration Notes
Model all poses clearly, show modifications, emphasise breath work, maintain calm demeanour throughout
Verbal Cues
- •'Breathe deeply and find your focus point'
- •'Slow and controlled movements'
- •'It's okay to wobble - that's how we learn!'
- •'Use the wall if you need support'
Safety Considerations
Space & Surface Requirements
Space Requirements
Minimum 20m x 15m clear space with non-slip surface
Surface Check
Clean, dry, even surface free from obstacles and hazards
Equipment Safety
Safety Checks
- •Check yoga mats are clean and non-slip
- •Ensure adequate spacing between mats (2 metres minimum)
- •Verify music system volume allows clear instruction
Risk Management
Key Risks
- •Falls during balance poses
- •Neck strain in shoulder stand positions
- •Knee injury from incorrect foot placement
Risk Mitigation
- •Emphasise never placing foot on side of knee joint
- •Encourage use of wall support when needed
- •Progress gradually from simple to complex poses
- •Teach safe entry and exit from poses
Supervision & Emergency Procedures
Supervision Points
- •Position for visibility of all students during poses
- •Monitor closely during balance transitions
- •Check breathing technique during mindfulness
Emergency Procedures
Stop activity immediately if injury occurs, assess student safety, provide appropriate first aid, contact school nurse if needed