School-based yoga and mindfulness curriculum: accessible, sustainable and far-reaching
Speaker: Lisa Flynn, E-RYT 200, RYT 500, RCYT; Louise Janelle, M.Ed; Marina Ebert, MA
Format: Audio & Slides

The purpose of this workshop is to present the curriculum and implementation model of a practical and accessible classroom-based yoga and mindfulness program, and to discuss its potential application in the larger community and at home. Offered in an interactive format incorporating both lecture-style elements and experiential modules, this workshop is designed to teach developmentally appropriate, safe and simple yoga and mindfulness techniques for use with the pediatric population. The information, tools and resources shared will benefit yoga and mindfulness instructors, educators, occupational therapists, school counselors and psychologists, mental health practitioners and other professionals and clinicians interested in learning how to incorporate developmentally appropriate contemplative practices into their work with children in various settings. This workshop will also include a discussion on building a bridge between various elements of secular contemplative practices, such as, for example, mindfulness meditation, yoga-based movement, breathing techniques, wellness and characterbuilding activities, which cumulatively address mental, physical, social and emotional health while improving learning-readiness. Attendees will leave this workshop with practical and developmentally appropriate mind-body tools they can immediately use in their professional interactions with children, as well as resources and recommendations for continued learning. In addition, attendees will also learn how schools and the greater community can simply and sustainably integrate contemplative programming into their existing structures. Lastly, the attendees will learn how by encompassing and addressing all key stakeholders, a well-designed yoga and mindfulness program may have a profound impact on the overall culture of an organization serving children.