Yoga offers numerous benefits for physical and mental wellbeing. Many people would immediately think of increased flexibility, strength, balance and co-ordination but yoga practice is also a useful tool to manage stress, promote relaxation in the systems of the body and can improve sleep quality. All of which are important elements for Y11 students with exams looming.
Yoga is more than just moving your body on a mat. It is much more – a holistic approach to care for our physical, mental and spiritual health because the practice of moving your body with the breath creates a natural mindfulness and focus. It brings us into the present moment and can improve our concentration and focus whilst settling the mind. Yoga can also help individuals to manage their emotions through the practices of deep breathing and moving emotion through the body.
During the Easter hols HeadStart were invited into Macmillan Academy to offer some non- academic support for Y11 students in between their revision sessions. Before the yoga practice students reported feeling anxious, stressed and generally ‘not good’. After some time on the mat students reported feeling good, peaceful, relaxed and calmer.
Published: April 22