Animal Yoga Calm
To develop body awareness and calming strategies through simple animal-themed yoga poses.
- Framework: EYFS
- Unit: EYFS Personal, Social & Emotional
- Learning area: Personal, Social and Emotional Development
- Level: EYFS 2-3
Objectives
- Follows simple yoga poses
- Shows body awareness
- Uses poses for calming
- Breathes more deeply
Materials
- Yoga mats or carpet space
- Animal yoga cards
- Calm music
- Comfortable clothing
Instructions
INTRODUCING ANIMAL POSES: 'Can you be a tall giraffe? Stretch up high! Now be a tiny mouse—curl up small. Now a strong tree—stand very still.' Simple animal shapes are engaging and achievable.
CONNECTING TO BREATHING: 'While you're being a butterfly, flutter slowly and breathe in... breathe out... butterflies are very calm and gentle.' Link poses with breathing naturally.
KEEPING IT SHORT: At this age, 5-10 minutes is plenty. Don't worry about correct form—the purpose is calming awareness, not exercise. 'You're doing brilliant yoga! Your cat pose is amazing!'
USING FOR TRANSITIONS: Use a quick yoga pose between activities: 'Before we go outside, let's all be tall trees. Breathe in... breathe out... now we're calm and ready.'