CHAPTER 11: on THE mAT: foRmAl YogA PRACTICES foR SElf-REgulATIon And EngAgEmEnT • 247gRow: learning and Trying Time
The GROW portion of the yoga session is the time to learn. Herrington (2012) suggests that you
pick two or three poses to workshop each class. Model the pose for the class pointing out key
details and points of focus (Herrington, 2012). Next, have two or three students demonstrate
the pose. Then, have the students try the pose. The intention is really getting into the pose and
understanding and practicing the specifics with body, breath, and intention. Herrington (2012)
suggests putting the poses of the day up on the board before class. The experience should be
positive overall. Make sure the students experience more successes than challenges (Harper,
2013). There are many fun poses you can try here. I have included a few suggestions. The
principles of inquiry (6), choice (7), self-determination (8), sustainability (9), compassion (10),
kindness (11), and possibility (12) can all be powerfully used here (see Chapter 3).
dancer Pose
Dancer Pose is considered a balancing and integrating pose (Flynn, 2013). Dancer Pose
develops balance and focus, stretches the shoulders and chest, and strengthens the ankles
Pose Wheel Pose
Instruct From lying on your back, bend your knees and place the soles of your feet on
your mat. Bring your hands by your ears and place the palms of your hands
up over your head, then place your hands, palms down on, the mat next to
your ears. Press down into your hands and feet at the same time, lifting your
core up toward the ceiling. Push into your hands, straighten your arms, and
press down into the inner rims of your feet to lift up even higher. Expand
through your chest as you pull your naval in toward your spine.
Anchor Point Your feet, hands, and belly. The focal point is directly behind you.
Breath Work Your breath should be deep, steady, and intentional.Photograph by Madison Weber; model Kayla Tiedemann.
Source: Walsh, 2008.