Yoga Information
Dear Parents of Students in Division 1,
I just wanted to share with you the outline for our current yoga unit being taught by Petra Ebner. Hopefully this will answer any questions:)
Ange McKay
The best way to describe *RAY*N*BOW* YOGA* is the “Yoga (Union) of Diversity”, an acceptance and inclusion of ALL, without any religious content. It focuses on the full acceptance of ourselves and others and the world around us. Children are taught to listen to their bodies, and are given the tools to deal with their emotions and life’s challenges through accessing their bodies’ inner wisdom. Through meditation, children are shown how to reach their ‘quiet centre’ through sound, movement and relaxation.The ultimate goal of *RAY*N*BOW* YOGA* is to learn to be in a joyful, positive space each and every day!
Class Format
All classes begin with a ‘centering sound’ of OM which is the Sanskrit word for the entire universe, in other words, the ‘inclusion’ of everything.
Ages 3 to 8
Classes are taught in a ‘story’ format where children can experience being a part of the story such as ‘the rock rolling down the hill’ or ‘being the bridge’ etc.
All classes have a positive message of some kind and the focus is on large motor movements, imagination and fun.
Ages 9-13
Yoga postures are taught with a theme and/or a Life Skill in mind such as Motivation, Happiness, Anger, Patience etc. Children in these Upper Elementary classes want to know not only the HOW but also the WHY and are given the tools and explanations to deal with their bodies and emotions. The message in these classes is acceptance of self and our uniqueness as individuals.
Relaxation
Time permitting a short relaxation will be built in after the set so children have an opportunity to learn to relax. The teacher goes around to every student and does the “Noodle test” whereby the child relaxes their arm like a ‘wet noodle’ and lets the teacher lift it up. This is a great way for children to learn that they can tell their minds to tell their bodies what to do.
Meditation
All Yoga classes are finished with a short meditation which usually includes, quiet, calming music and hand movements of some kind, as children at these ages have difficulty sitting still for longer periods of time.
Music
All music is age appropriate
Closing
All Classes end with a Celtic Song called “The Long Time Sun”. The words are as follows:
May the long time sun shine upon you
All Love surround you
And the pure light within you
Guide your way on
The class then ends once again with the ‘centering sound’ of SAT Nam which means
“I am Truth” or “I am my authentic self”, honoring our uniqueness as individuals.
IN JOY
Petra Ebner
Founder of *RAY*N*BOW* YOGA*
