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Lesson 3 - Strength Through Yoga Flows

Mindful Movement Flows

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Year 5

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Yoga

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50 min

Big Question

How can we use yoga flows to build physical and mental strength while moving with control and grace?

Learning Objectives

To develop strength through controlled yoga flows and poses
To improve coordination by linking poses with fluid transitions
To enhance mindfulness and breathing techniques during yoga practice

Key Outcomes

Students will demonstrate strength and control in individual yoga poses
Students will create smooth, controlled transitions between poses in a flow sequence
Students will show improved focus and mindfulness through breathing exercises

Equipment & Resources Required

Yoga Mat

1 per student (30)

Arrange in circle formation with space for movement between mats

Alternative: Carpet squares, towels, or marked floor spaces

Cards

1 set per 4-6 students

Keep sets easily accessible around the room perimeter

Alternative: Printed pose pictures, tablet with yoga app, demonstration posters

Background Music

Audio system with volume control

Test audio levels before lesson - should enhance not distract

Alternative: Bluetooth speaker, tablet with speakers, no music (silent practice)

Key Vocabulary

Namaste

A greeting that means 'I bow to you' - showing respect in yoga practice

Flow

Moving smoothly from one yoga pose to another with control

Breath control

Using slow, deep breathing to help focus and strengthen poses

Warrior pose

A strong standing pose that builds leg strength and focus

Tree pose

A balancing pose where one foot is placed on the standing leg

Mindfulness

Paying careful attention to the present moment and your feelings

Skill Progression Pathway

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

Prior Learning

Basic body awareness and balance
Simple stretching movements
Following basic instructions
Understanding of breathing patterns

Current Skills

Controlled yoga pose holds
Fluid transitions between poses
Mindful breathing techniques
Strength building through static holds

Next Steps

Complex yoga flow sequences
Advanced balancing poses
Self-directed practice and reflection
Teaching poses to others

Milestone Indicators

Can hold poses for 5+ controlled breaths

Smooth transitions without losing balance

Demonstrates strength in challenging poses

Shows mindfulness and focus throughout practice

Key Teaching Points

Always prioritise alignment and safety over achieving perfect pose appearance
Encourage breath awareness throughout all activities - never hold breath during poses
Foster positive self-talk through the 'I Am' affirmations and personal reflection
Model mindfulness and calm presence yourself to create the right atmosphere
Emphasise that yoga is non-competitive and everyone's practice is unique
Use the transitional movements as learning opportunities for control and coordination
Connect physical strength building to mental and emotional strength development

Common Misconceptions

Misconception: Yoga poses must look exactly like pictures. Truth: Individual bodies are different, modifications are normal
Misconception: Flexibility is more important than strength. Truth: Yoga builds both strength and flexibility together
Misconception: You must be silent during yoga. Truth: Communication and encouragement are part of group practice
Misconception: Breathing exercises are easy. Truth: Controlled breathing takes practice and concentration
Misconception: Yoga is only about physical poses. Truth: Mindfulness and emotional awareness are equally important

SEN Adaptations

ADHD

Include movement breaks, use shorter sequences initially, provide clear visual boundaries

dyspraxia

Break down poses into smaller steps, use wall support, allow extra time for coordination

autism spectrum

Provide visual schedule of sequence, offer quiet space if needed, use consistent routine structure

visual impairment

Use verbal descriptions of poses, allow tactile exploration of positions, provide audio cues for breathing

hearing impairment

Use visual demonstrations, written pose cards, hand signals for breathing cues

physical disability

Offer seated versions of poses, use chair support, adapt poses for individual mobility

Cross-Curricular Links

English

Learning new vocabulary, expressing feelings and experiences, listening and speaking skills

Maths

Counting breaths, understanding patterns in sequences, symmetry in poses and movements

Science

Understanding how muscles work and strengthen through controlled exercise, learning about breathing and lung capacity

PSHE

Developing self-awareness, emotional regulation, respect for others, and mindfulness practices

Teacher Guidance

Positioning

Move around the circle to observe all students, position at 12 o'clock for demonstrations

Observation Focus

Watch for proper alignment, breath coordination, and signs of strain or fatigue

Intervention Points

Step in if students forcing poses, showing poor alignment, or appearing distressed

Demonstration Notes

Model every pose with perfect alignment, speak in calm, encouraging tone throughout, show modifications for different abilities

Verbal Cues

•'Breathe deeply and slowly'
•'Only go as far as feels comfortable'
•'Strong and steady like a mountain'
•'Soft gaze, relaxed shoulders'

Safety Considerations

Space & Surface Requirements

Space Requirements

Minimum 4m x 4m clear space per student for full movement, non-slip surface essential

Surface Check

Yoga mats properly positioned, no gaps or overlaps, dry and clean surface

Equipment Safety

Safety Checks

•Yoga mats checked for wear and cleanliness
•Pose cards have no sharp edges or tears
•Audio equipment positioned safely away from movement area

Risk Management

Key Risks

•Strains from forcing poses beyond ability
•Falls during balancing poses
•Wrist strain in weight-bearing poses
•Dizziness from breathing exercises

Risk Mitigation

•Emphasise never forcing poses
•Provide wall support for balance poses
•Teach proper wrist alignment
•Monitor breathing exercises carefully
•Encourage rest when needed

Supervision & Emergency Procedures

Supervision Points

•Position to see all students during pose practice
•Move around during flows to check alignment
•Monitor breathing exercises for any distress

Emergency Procedures

Stop activity immediately if injury occurs, assess need for first aid, ensure student sits safely before providing care