YOGA FOR DISTRICT 75

Relaxation, stretching and strengthening techniques allow students, teachers and para-professionals to gently focus the mind while increasing multi-sensory awareness of self and others.

In this residency, students gain strength, flexibility, clarity of mind, and sensitivity to themselves and to their environment. Through practicing adapted physical postures, breathing and vocal techniques which stem from the yogic tradition, students learn to calm down and listen.  Many postures are based on animal movements, and are easily integrated with science curricula, to the delight of students of all ages. Calm music and visual aids, along with lowered lighting and gentle, tactile prompting enhance the students’ experiences and allow them to release unnecessary tension and anxiety. Some exercises are more vigorous, allowing students to access and express feelings in a safe and controlled setting, while increasing emotional awareness – a vital developmental skill for many District 75 students.

Students of all functioning levels develop a variety of basic locomotor (traveling through space) and non-locomotor (moving in place) movements. Gross and fine motor skills are increased as the student creatively explores movement as it pertains to his or her own body, those of others, and their surroundings. Through partnering in specific activities and creating a classroom environment that encourages positive group/peer interactions, the class develops coordination, body awareness, and new ways to be in contact with others.

Experienced Teaching Artists (TAs) adapt yoga and related material according to the physical and cognitive functioning levels of each class.  Teachers and para-professionals work in close collaboration with TAs, assisting and guiding students through activities when necessary.

Students of all levels of physical, emotional, and developmental ability increase gross and fine motor skills while experiencing relaxation, stretching and strengthening techniques, which allow the mind to gently focus on multi-sensory awareness of the self and others.