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Lesson 3 - Strength Through Yoga Flows

Sun Salutations to Personal Flow

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Year 6

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Yoga

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1h 7min

Big Question

How can we build physical and mental strength through mindful movement and controlled breathing?

Learning Objectives

To develop physical strength through sustained yoga poses
To improve control and coordination in yoga sequences
To link poses smoothly with conscious breathing and mindful movement

Key Outcomes

Students will demonstrate controlled movements between yoga poses with fluid transitions
Students will hold yoga poses with strength and stability for multiple breaths
Students will understand how breathing supports strength and mindfulness in yoga practice

Equipment & Resources Required

Yoga Mat

1 per student (30)

Arranged in circle formation for group activities

Alternative: Towels or marked floor spaces

Tunnel Systems

Positioned centrally for clear audio throughout space

Alternative: Portable speaker or tablet

Cards

1 set per 6 students

Available for distribution during yoga wave activity

Alternative: Printed pose sheets or visual displays

Relaxation Music

Audio tracks

Queued and ready for mindfulness sections

Alternative: Nature sounds or calm instrumental music

Key Vocabulary

Yoga flow

A sequence of yoga poses linked together with smooth, controlled movements

Namaste

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

Controlled breathing

Slow, deliberate breathing that supports movement and mindfulness

Warrior 2

A standing pose with wide legs and arms extended, building strength and focus

Tree pose

A balancing pose on one leg with the other foot placed on thigh or calf

Mindfulness

Being fully present and aware of the current moment and sensations

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
Awareness of body position and balance

Current Skills

Holding poses with increased strength and duration
Creating flowing sequences between poses
Coordinating movement with conscious breathing

Next Steps

Advanced yoga flows and complex sequences
Teaching poses to others and peer support
Independent mindfulness and relaxation practices

Milestone Indicators

Students can hold poses for 5+ controlled breaths

Smooth transitions between poses without losing balance

Evidence of strength building in challenging poses

Key Teaching Points

Coordinate breathing with movement throughout all yoga practice
Emphasise strength building through sustained pose holds rather than flexibility
Create safe, non-competitive environment where all abilities are celebrated
Use affirmations to build confidence and inner strength alongside physical strength
Connect mindfulness and body awareness to emotional regulation and wellbeing
Demonstrate modifications to ensure every student can participate successfully
Focus on quality of movement and breath rather than perfect pose execution

Common Misconceptions

Yoga is only about flexibility - emphasise strength and mental focus
Perfect poses are required - stress personal progress and effort
Breathing exercises are difficult - reassure that natural breath is always acceptable
Mindfulness requires complete stillness - explain that gentle movement can be mindful
Stronger students are better at yoga - highlight that yoga builds many different types of strength

SEN Adaptations

ADHD

Movement breaks within poses, clear structure, physical activity to support focus

dyspraxia

Simplified sequences, additional time for coordination, use of wall or partner support

autism spectrum

Predictable routine, visual schedule, quiet space option, sensory considerations for music

visual impairment

Clear verbal descriptions of poses, physical guidance for positioning, use of tactile cues for alignment

hearing impairment

Visual demonstrations, written pose cards, use of vibration for rhythm, clear visual cues

physical disability

Seated yoga variations, use of props and supports, modified poses for different mobility levels

Cross-Curricular Links

English

Vocabulary development for body awareness and feelings, listening skills, verbal reflection

Maths

Counting breaths, timing sequences, spatial awareness, symmetry in poses

Science

Understanding muscle groups, respiratory system, mind-body connection, balance and coordination

PSHE

Self-awareness, emotional regulation, mindfulness, respect for self and others, building resilience

Teacher Guidance

Positioning

Move around circle during practice for individual support, centre position for demonstrations

Observation Focus

Watch for proper alignment, signs of strain, breathing coordination, mindful engagement

Intervention Points

Step in if students overexerting, losing balance, or showing discomfort

Demonstration Notes

Model calm, centred presence throughout, demonstrate modifications alongside main poses, show breath coordination clearly

Verbal Cues

•'Breathe into your strength'
•'Move like you're flowing through honey'
•'Listen to what your body needs'

Safety Considerations

Space & Surface Requirements

Space Requirements

Minimum 5m x 5m clear space per student, non-slip surface ideal

Surface Check

Clean, dry floor free from obstacles, yoga mats properly positioned

Equipment Safety

Safety Checks

•Yoga mats clean and in good condition
•Audio equipment positioned safely away from movement area
•Yoga cards checked for sharp edges or damage

Risk Management

Key Risks

•Overexertion in challenging poses
•Dizziness from breathing exercises
•Loss of balance in standing poses

Risk Mitigation

•Emphasise listening to body limits
•Provide wall support options for balance poses
•Monitor breathing exercises for signs of hyperventilation
•Allow modifications for all poses

Supervision & Emergency Procedures

Supervision Points

•Position for clear view of all students during practice
•Move around to provide individual guidance
•Monitor closely during breathing exercises

Emergency Procedures

Stop activity if student shows signs of dizziness, provide seated rest, ensure normal breathing returns