Beacon Tree kindergartners find yoga fun

There was a whole lot of stretching (and giggling) going on at Beacon Tree Elementary School one recent afternoon as nearly 100 kindergarten students sampled yoga positions and breathing exercises.

Professional yoga instructor Heather Burley, whose son Gavin was in the class, led the students in a series of simple exercises that just about anyone can do.

“Yoga strengthens those important core muscles and can be beneficial in helping children learn to relax and focus,” she said.

Kindergarten teacher Kristen Frazier recognizes the benefits of the worldwide fitness practice that began 5,000 years ago in India.

“We are always looking for rich experiences for students,” she said. “It’s important for students to learn how to refocus their energy. We encourage ‘brain breaks’ for them to get up and get moving and get ready for the next activity.”

Frazier added that online resources like www.GoNoodle.com and others are fun ways to encourage students to move and reinforce learning.

Beacon Tree physical education teacher Michele Lundsten helped lead the yoga class, which also included a group of second graders.

“Our students are learning that exercise is lifelong and not just for gym class,” she said. “Basic breathing, stretching and balance are important in everyday life. More oxygen to the brain helps learning.”

Kindergartner Grace Cottingham also weighed in, declaring, “It’s cool!” Her classmate Jackson Tur nodded, “I like when we were bringing our legs are up,” he said, referring to the stork pose the students practiced.