The first day of Lower Elementary Yoga.
Yoga is an ancient practice that originated in India. It’s positive effects are independent of religious beliefs. “Yoga” means union of the physical and non-physical. It cultivates self-awareness and self-acceptance. Yoga builds strength, flexibility, coordination, and stimulates new neural pathways. Simultaneously, yoga fosters both self-discipline as well as relaxation and inner calm.
At the primary level, yoga is presented through story and song. The children act out stories through yoga poses and enjoy Bibi Bhani Kaur’s guitar and lovely voice singing “I am happy,” “Happiness runs in a circular motion” and more.
At both primary and elementary, children practice and learn the importance of breathing slowly. Slow breathing relaxes the stomach, helps food digest, aids sleep, and helps each student to be present in the moment. Being fully present helps children learn.
Children come to school in all states of being; some tired, hungry, some full of energy, some worried about being perfect. The goal in yoga class is to accommodate all of this with the ancient teachings of acceptance. Children learn that it is possible to feel really good by standing straight and quiet and breathing slowly. In the process, they also learn about their bodies.
Yoga teacher Carol Mitchell and dog “Dapper”.
Carol Mitchell, the elementary yoga teacher, also usually brings to class her helper, a 11 year old , 70 lb. Labradoodle. Carol says, “Dapper has been part of the yoga class since he was 3 months old. Dapper has been very important in teaching about love, caring, and responsibility. Sometimes we (Dapper and the children) do Doga , heightening students’ understanding of of how to interact with animals [and all living creatures] in a safe and respectful way.”
Participation in yoga helps children in their present and future lives. Yoga teaches students to respect and honor themselves, thus respecting and honoring others. It teaches us not to hurt ourselves and thus not to hurt others. Yoga teaches that we can feel really good by paying attention to what we are doing.