Benefits of Yoga in School

Anti-bullying, health and wellness, and character education are common themes in American schools today, all focusing on educating the whole child, mind, body and spirit. Yoga, supports this learning, thus maximizing the learning process.

  • Provides students healthy ways to express and balance their emotions

  • Promotes a more relaxed, comfortable state of being – the perfect state for teaching and learning

  • Brings students into the present moment – the most basic requirement for learning

  • Encourages community and connectedness within the classroom

  • Helps to create an atmosphere of confidence, enthusiasm and non-competitiveness where everyone can succeed

  • Provides opportunities for beneficial motor breaks throughout the day

  • Eases anxiety and tension (such as pre-test or performance jitters)

  • Enhances focus, concentration, comprehension and memory

  • Provides opportunities for reflection, patience and insight, reducing impulsivity and reactivity

  • Improves listening skills

  • Wakes up sluggish minds and creativity as needed

  • Enhances organizational and communication skills

  • Improves posture, assisting students to sit comfortably for long periods

  • Enhances motor skills and balance

  • Improves mind/body awareness and connection

  • Encourages respect for oneself and others

  • Creates a calm, harmonious classroom

Benefits of Yoga in the Classroom

Yoga helps kids to:

  • Develop body awareness

  • Learn how to use their bodies in a healthy way

  • Manage stress through breathing, awareness, meditation and healthy movement

  • Build concentration

  • Increase their confidence and positive self-image

  • Feel part of a healthy, non-competitive group

  • Have an alternative to tuning out through constant attachment to electronic devices

In a school setting, yoga can also benefit teachers by:

  • Giving them an alternate way to handle challenges in the classroom

  • Giving them a healthy activity to integrate with lesson plans

  • Give them a way to blend exercise into their classes