Breathe in… breathe out… A gentle reminder and exercise NUSD Teacher and Certified Yoga Instructor Michelle Jamieson advocates in her yoga class offered Mondays and Wednesdays after school in the Virtual Tutoring and Wellness Center (VTWC).
From learning different poses to engaging in breathing exercises, Yoga with Michelle provides many benefits for students beyond the mat. “Yoga benefits students physically, mentally, and emotionally. It helps to develop focus and concentration, resilience, and perseverance explains Jamieson. It also provides an environment that promotes calm, empathy, and self-compassion and develops tools that students can use to effectively reduce stress and anxiety.”
In addition to its physical, mental, and emotional health benefits, yoga is an activity that brings the whole family together. Claire, a student at Heron School, couldn’t agree more. “My mom told me about the class, and I thought it would be fun. And my mom said she would do the class with me,” explains Claire. After Wednesday’s session, Claire shared that she enjoyed the partner poses with her Mom and that it’s something fun they can continue to practice on their own.
Each Yoga with Michelle session is 30 minutes long, two times a week – just enough time for students and families to move their bodies and be introduced to new poses. “Yoga provides a wonderful environment for students to learn to tune into their thoughts, feelings, and sensations while also discovering ways to deal with what is going on inside in productive ways,” explains Jamieson.
The free class is not only for students. It’s open to families and staff. Sign up for a Monday or Wednesday class or both from 3-3:30 p.m. Visit the Virtual Tutoring and Wellness Center to explore more family-fun activities and student support services.
