11/28/12

On Tuesday and Thursday mornings, the gymnasium at Arbutus Elementary School becomes a yoga studio.  Physical education teacher Connie Lemon, with the help of kindergarten teacher Marilyn Flook and special education teacher Miriam Rittberg, leads a group of 35 students, teachers, and parents in 30-minute yoga classes.  

According to Lemon, yoga is the world's oldest form of exercise, and it is known to reduce stress, help achieve emotional balance, develop the ability to focus, and enhance cognition. The physical benefits include improved cardiovascular, respiratory, musculoskeletal, endocrine, and nervous system health. Lemon says that mindfulness of the physical and emotional wellbeing of self and others is taught to enhance a holistic educational experience for Arbutus Elementary students.