Yoga and Mindful Movement
To develop balance, flexibility, and body awareness through yoga-inspired movements.
- Framework: EYFS
- Unit: EYFS Physical Development
- Learning area: Physical Development
- Level: EYFS 3-4
Objectives
- Holds simple balances
- Follows movement sequences
- Shows developing body awareness
- Demonstrates increasing flexibility
Materials
- Yoga mats or carpet squares
- Visual pose cards
- Calming music
- Quiet space
Instructions
CREATING THE ATMOSPHERE: Choose a calm, clear space. Dim lights if possible. Play gentle music. Give each child their own mat or spot. 'This is your special place. Find a comfortable sitting position.'
USING FAMILIAR THEMES: Frame poses with animal or nature names: 'Cat pose—arch your back like a stretching cat!' 'Tree pose—stand tall like a strong tree with branches reaching up!' Imagery helps children understand the shape.
DEMONSTRATING CLEARLY: Face children and demonstrate each pose. Hold poses for 3-5 breaths. 'Watch me—I'm going to become a butterfly. Sit down, put your feet together, and flap your wings slowly!'
BUILDING BREATHING AWARENESS: Teach breathing through simple exercises: 'Breathe in through your nose like you're smelling flowers. Breathe out through your mouth like you're blowing out candles.' Link breath to movement.
INCLUDING BALANCE POSES: Balance poses develop core strength and concentration: tree pose (standing on one leg), eagle pose (balancing with wrapped legs). 'If you wobble, that's okay! Trees wobble in the wind too!'
INCLUDING STRETCHES: Include stretches that develop flexibility: forward folds, side stretches, twists. 'Reach up to the sky... now let your arms float down like feathers.'
ENDING WITH RELAXATION: Finish with a short relaxation: 'Lie down like a sleeping starfish. Close your eyes. Feel your body heavy on the floor. Breathe slowly.' Even 30 seconds of stillness is beneficial.
KEEPING IT SHORT: 5-10 minutes is plenty for this age. End before children lose focus. 'Slowly wiggle your fingers and toes. Roll to one side. Sit up. Namaste—thank you for practicing yoga with me!'