Did you know that even just a few minutes of yoga each day can greatly improve mental clarity, reduce stress levels, and foster emotional balance? Integrating yoga into school routines isn’t just about movement—it’s about cultivating a deeper sense of awareness, calm, and connection that benefits both educators and their students. Whether it's through breathing techniques, gentle stretching, or mindful reflection, yoga offers accessible tools to support well-being in the demanding world of education. The latest edition of the course “Yoga for teachers and school staff: Enhancing Well-being in the classroom” was held in Tenerife from 06/04/2025 to 12/04/2025. Educators from across Europe came together to explore how yoga can be implemented as a valuable practice in their professional and personal lives. The participants included Sabrina Haumer from BORG Lauterach in Austria, Diana Naikauske from Kaunas Jonas Jablonskis gymnasium in Lithuania, Barbara Bertola from IIS A Einstein in Italy, Daniela Abele from GGS Sandstraße in Germany, Maria Bergman Skiba and Pia Mucchiano from De Geergymnasiet in Sweden, Leonie Obdeijn and Carin Muller from Aventus in Netherlands, Dominika Takacova, Alena Bernathova and Monika Jancusova from Prince Pribina Primary School in Slovakia. The week began with welcoming ice-breaker activities aimed at building trust, openness, and a strong sense of group connection. Participants then engaged in a digital quiz to evaluate their starting knowledge of yoga postures, terminology, and their personal and teaching goals. This engaging introduction laid the groundwork for a week of shared learning, mindfulness, and personal development. Early sessions introduced participants to the philosophical foundations of yoga, explaining key concepts and terminology that form the basis of this ancient discipline. This theoretical understanding was paired with a review of scientific studies that support the use of yoga and mind-body practices in educational settings. These insights helped participants recognize the positive impact yoga can have on classroom dynamics and individual well-being. Each day followed a consistent routine that encouraged the embodiment of mindfulness. Mornings started with energizing yoga and meditation sessions, followed by reflective journaling to align intentions and promote self-awareness. The course emphasized emotional intelligence, stress management, and personal development through targeted techniques like Pranayama (breathing exercises), designed to calm the mind and sharpen focus. Practical workshops highlighted how yoga could be used to build trust and cooperation among students. Group exercises fostered a sense of community, while techniques for emotional regulation—including strategies for dealing with anger and enhancing happiness—offered useful tools for classroom management. A standout moment of the week was an outdoor yoga practice, allowing participants to immerse themselves in nature and experience a deeper sense of connection and mindfulness. This session underscored the importance of environment in promoting relaxation and mental clarity. As the course drew to a close, participants reflected on their personal growth and professional insights. They designed custom yoga routines tailored to their classrooms, combining posture sequences, breathing techniques, and mindful reflection to help reduce stress and promote focus among both students and staff. By the end of the program, attendees left not only with new skills and practical resources, but also with a renewed sense of purpose and emotional balance. The tools they acquired are not just for the classroom—they're tools for life, encouraging a more grounded, peaceful, and resilient approach to teaching and living. Discover more about this inspiring course here: https://www.erasmustrainingcourses.com |