Cognitive Benefits
Yoga is a practice that enhances problem-solving, learning readiness, and academic success. Through breathing exercises, mindful movement, and relaxation, your students will develop stronger focus and memory skills, making it easier for them to engage with new concepts and lessons.
Research has shown that yoga can support academic performance by improving attention span and reducing distractions, which is especially valuable during structured learning times.
Physical Benefits
From mountain pose to tree pose, yoga helps build physical movement awareness, strength, and flexibility in a safe place where children can explore their bodies.
It promotes healthy habits and body control, helping young children develop essential gross motor skills needed for balance, coordination, and endurance.
A well-structured yoga sequence ensures that movement is engaging and appropriate for this age group.
Emotional & Social Benefits
Yoga plays a huge role in building self-regulation skills and supporting emotional intelligence in my classroom.
By practising mindfulness activities and breathing exercises, children learn to manage their own anxiety, frustration, and excitement, leading to stress relief and improved classroom behaviour.
It also fosters a sense of community, as students learn to move together, listen to each other, and respect personal space.
Yoga also encourages positive social skills, such as taking turns, being kind, and supporting one another.
In large groups of kids, structured yoga lessons help create a supportive environment where everyone feels included.
Research and Evidence
Studies in educational settings, including public schools and even high school, have shown that yoga helps reduce stress, improve mental well-being, and create a positive way to approach learning.
Research has also linked yoga to improvements in classroom routine and behaviour, particularly when incorporated into transition times or used as brain breaks.
In short, adding yoga to your classroom is not only a fun activity, but it’s one that is research-backed. A strategy for fostering happier, healthier, and more engaged students. And we all want that!
Want to explore the research? Check out my blog post: 11 Amazing Yoga Benefits for Children