Yoga Physical Education

Yoga Physical Education: This course serves as an alternative to a traditional Physical Education class and provides students an introduction to yoga postures (asana) and breathing techniques (pranayama). Yoga is an ancient mental and physical discipline that combines meditative focus and controlled breathing with deliberately aligned body positions. Yoga, as a physical activity, is a non-competitive, largely anaerobic exercise that dramatically increases balance, flexibility, and isometric strength when practiced regularly. Yoga also minimizes the risk of many equipment-based sports injuries, because strength is developed using only the weight of the body. Learning will take place via the primary instructor, Mrs. Pomerleau, as well as occasional guest instructors. Students will be exposed to a variety of yoga practice styles including, but not limited to: Ashtanga, Vinyasa Flow, Acro Yoga, and Relaxation. Throughout the duration of this course, students will also engage in walking as a form of meditation, cardiovascular activity, and personal emotional control. Walking on appointed days of the week will also help to create a balanced experience that will increase students mental and physical capabilities for the overarching purpose of lifelong interest and enjoyment in personal, meaningful physical fitness.