Young Yogis Breathe for Change

Breathe for Change empowers educators to enhance well-being in their lives, classrooms and school communities.  Their mission is to change the world, one teacher at a time. They unite, train and support educators in wellness and social-emotional learning practices that improve individual and collective well-being.  After completing the 16 day, intensive training, I will be a 200 hour certified yoga teacher with the capacity to instruct students, teachers and community members in yoga and mindfulness exercises.

I am inspired to participate in Breathe For Change because I have a deep belief in the transformative powers of yoga. Incorporating the tenets of the Breathe for Change program into my classroom teaching would shine new light on my spiritual, emotional and educational journey. I have practiced yoga inconsistently for nearly 6 years and the experience has impacted me tremendously.  Through trying times, yoga has been my saving grace; my solace, my calm. Each time I roll out my mat an opportunity to reconnect, explore boundaries and challenge inhibitions presents itself to me.  Unfortunately, my career often takes precedence over my practice, and it is difficult to remain a committed practitioner throughout the school year.  This program would facilitate my ability to marry my two greatest passions; yoga and teaching. Integrating yoga into my daily instructional routine would support my personal goals for self-care while providing my students with an opportunity to practice mindfulness, emotional self-regulation and physical wellness.    

I teach in an urban school district that serves underprivileged children with limited access and exposure to healthy lifestyle models. Introducing students to yoga, meditation and mindfulness will undoubtedly empower them on and off the mat.  By design, yoga helps individuals become more aware of their physical, mental and spiritual needs and desires.  It encourages introspection, self-forgiveness and an acute awareness of one’s own surroundings. Guiding students as they learn to “be the change that they wish to see in the world” will inevitably lead to a process of self-inquiry and discovery.  Ultimately, social change begins with the acts of individuals.  Once students have accepted the philosophy of yoga, it is imperative that they recognize themselves as agents of change within their community.   It would be my hope to collaborate with our school’s Parent Liaison in order to offer community yoga classes and wellness workshops.  With compassion, inclusion and equality, social change is a real possibility.