How Yoga 4 Classrooms Transformed My Teaching (and My Students)

Meet Kari Heil! Kari is a 2nd grade teacher in Wausau, Wisconsin, where she also serves as “Teacher in Charge” and a Mentor Teacher. With 25 years of experience teaching kindergarten, first, and second grade, she is passionate about helping all students and staff integrate self-regulation into the school day so they can be their very best— academically, socially, and emotionally.

I stumbled upon Yoga 4 Classrooms when I decided to see if there was yoga training designed specifically for classroom teachers. Most training I found was expensive, and I knew my school didn’t have a budget for it. Then the internet led me to Yoga 4 Classrooms. I immediately became interested in the 6-hour self-paced course, and the low price was unbeatable. As I watched the videos, I was so intrigued and quickly finished the course. I was so excited to bring what I learned into the classroom.

While the yoga poses that can all be done sitting at a desk or standing are fantastic, Yoga 4 Classrooms is so much more than just yoga. I now have many self-regulation techniques in my toolbox. I created a weekly routine that includes yoga, breathing techniques, mindful coloring, gratitude journaling, Imagination Vacations, and so much more. You can fit it in 5 minutes before core instruction or block time into your daily schedule.

I cannot begin to tell you how much Yoga 4 Classrooms has helped my students and myself.  Behavior issues decreased because students learn to manage their own feelings appropriately. Academic scores increased because students are better able to focus on learning. The atmosphere was calmer, which was better for everyone.

When I found out that there was an IMPLEMENT Leader Training, I showed my principal, who didn’t hesitate to say, “You should do this!” The training was offered at a very fair price that my administrators didn’t question. It was by far the best professional development I have ever had. Sarah Kirk is so knowledgeable and helpful throughout the training and beyond. I feel confident that I have the skills I need to bring the wonderful Yoga 4 Classroom techniques to my entire Pre-K through 5th grade school for the upcoming school year.

If you are wondering if Yoga 4 Classrooms is right for you, give it a try! You won’t be sorry that you did!

It brings us great joy to hear about Yoga 4 Classrooms making a difference in the classroom and schoolwide. Thank you, Kari, for the positive impact you make every single day! We would love to hear how you are using Yoga 4 Classrooms, too. Contact us and share your story.