Cultivating Calm: Yoga Practices for Teachers and School Communities

Incorporating yoga into daily routines has been shown to significantly improve overall well-being and reduce stress levels. Beginning the day with a sense of calm and balance can be effectively supported through yoga practices. Whether it involves deep breathing, gentle stretching, or moments of mindfulness, yoga offers the potential to positively impact not only individuals but the broader educational environment as well.

​The latest edition of the course “Yoga for teachers and school staff: Enhancing Well-being in the classroom” took place in Palermo from 13/10/2024 to 19/10/2024. Participants from various educational settings across Europe came together to explore how yoga can positively impact their teaching and school environment. The group of participants included: Martina Kokorov, Romana Nováková and Petra Vojtova, from SOŠZ a SOU Český Krumlov, Czech Republic; Hayley Anne Fitzgerald, from Ireland, Earlydays, school ST FRC, School ST, Dublin 8; and two participants from Germany: Katherina Müller and Alina Lehnemann, from Karl-Schiller-Berufskolleg Dortmund.

The course began with interactive ice-breakers aimed at building a sense of community and openness among participants. They also took part in a game to assess their initial understanding of yoga postures and names, while reflecting on their personal teaching and wellness goals. This introduction established a foundation for a week of exploration and growth.

The journey started with an overview of yoga philosophy and terminology, providing participants with a solid understanding of the principles behind this ancient practice. We also explored the scientific research backing mind-body interventions in education, examining how these techniques can create a more harmonious and effective learning environment.

The course focused on the role of yoga in enhancing emotional intelligence and managing stress. Techniques for emotional balance, including methods to handle anger and promote happiness, were explored alongside yoga exercises aimed at building trust and teamwork in the classroom. Breathing exercises (Pranayama) were introduced to help manage stress and improve mental clarity. These practices were integrated into daily routines, allowing participants to experience the positive effects of mindful breathing on overall well-being.

The course included various practical sessions focused on incorporating yoga into daily school routines. Each day opened with a morning yoga practice and meditation, followed by journaling activities where participants reflected on their intentions and experiences, helping to establish a positive mindset for the day ahead.

A key highlight of the course was an outdoor yoga session, where participants took part in mindfulness exercises that connected them with nature. This experience enhanced their understanding of how yoga can cultivate a calm and centered state of being.

By the course's end, participants were not only equipped with practical tools for their classrooms but also motivated to adopt a more mindful and balanced approach in their professional and personal lives. Yoga offers the potential for lasting change, creating an environment where teachers, students, and staff can thrive together.

In the final days of the course, participants shared their insights and routines, and the broader impact of incorporating yoga into educational settings was discussed. This was accompanied by a practical session in which participants developed their own yoga routines for classroom use, providing them with strategies to improve focus, foster trust, and reduce stress among students and staff.

Discover more about this course here.