Learning begins with movement. Before a child is able to verbally communicate, he has an implicit ability to express and understand ideas through movement. We call this body language. Body language begins as a means of communicating his needs; then, as his command of body language develops, he begins to understand what is being communicated […]
Of all the aspects of a well-rounded yoga practice, breath is the most essential. Yoga is defined as “yoke” or “unite” and generally refers to the union between body, mind, and spirit. Imagine the breath (in yoga, called prana) as the thread, the essential life force energy, that ties these three elements together. Breath is […]
Morning Meetings in classrooms hold significant importance for several reasons. They serve as a valuable tool for building a positive classroom culture, establishing routines, promoting social and emotional development, enhancing communication, improving attendance, and setting the tone for the rest of the day. Often Morning Meetings include a Greeting, Sharing, Activity, and Morning Message. The […]
Anyone who has sat for long periods of time understands the stress and strain sitting has on the body. In the absence of movement, the muscles shorten and become stiff, joints lose their range of motion, and blood and lymphatic fluid collect in the lower body. This latter fact is of particular concern, as lymphatic fluid (which plays a […]
It’s test time and you and your students have been sitting…and sitting…and they’re starting to get squirmy in their seats. Or, maybe it’s the end of the day and you’ve gathered up for a staff meeting but everyone comes in hunched over and looking lethargic… DESK PUPPY to the rescue! Desk Puppy, a modified version […]
Are you students slouching, slumped back in their chairs of lying over their desks? If so, it’s a sign they may be uncomfortable, lethargic and potentially disengaged from learning. A strong core and good posture is a prerequisite for maintaining alertness, focus, attention and overall engagement in the classroom. But that’s not all! Good posture […]
Funding training and materials to support the integration of mindful moments in the classroom, schools, school districts is not always easy but there ARE sources available. From federal and local grant opportunities, community grants, creative funding options, and even some do-it-yourself tips, we hope this free download of ideas and supporting resources will help you […]
It’s time for the math lesson, but your students just came back from lunch and recess and energy their energy is sky high. It’s been a long afternoon and you notice your students are looking sluggish, slumping down in their chairs, yawning and looking tired and disengaged. A handful of students are rocking in their […]
It makes our hearts sing when students who have been utilizing Yoga 4 Classrooms mindful moments share their own versions of the activities with us, or even new activities they’ve been inspired to create! Join these special 4th graders as they lead you in an end-of-the-week breathing practice they created based on Flying Bird Breath, […]
Try this Y4C Let’s Breathe practice to support self-regulation while encouraging compassion, connectedness and community.