Yoga for the Inflexible

Summer ConferenceJune 2009

Yoga. . .for beginners

Means “union”

MindBodySpirit

Yoga

• Not just stretching• Creating balance through developing

both strength and flexibility• This is done through performance of

poses or postures, each of which has specific physical benefits.

• Poses can be done quickly in succession, creating heat (vinyasa-style yoga)

• Or more slowly to increase stamina and perfect the alignment of the pose.

• Approach varies depending on the tradition in which the teacher has trained.

Asanas

Yoga positions (called Asanas)

• Child’s Pose

• Downward Facing Dog

• Warrior

• Sun Salutations

Let’s Practice. . .

Implications for the Classroom

• Creates a relaxed state of mind for students

• Centering

• Relaxation strategy to apply in life

• Brain-based

Good Time for Yoga

• Before/After tests

• Toward the end of year

• When the schedule is disrupted

• Any stressful situation for students