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Chapter 9: Yoga as Embodied Self-Regulation and Engagement: From Traditional Practices to School

DOI:

10.1891/9780826131737.0009

Abstract

This chapter covers the definition of yoga, traditional forms and structures of yoga, and addresses general considerations related to the provision of yoga in schools. Yoga provides a structure of strengthening the body, relaxing the nervous and emotional systems, and bringing one-pointed, bare awareness to the present moment. Traditionally, yoga is described in older texts in terms of seven main paths namely Hatha, Raja, Jnana, Mantra, Karma, Bhakti, and Tantra. Yoga in schools is a set of mind-body practices for well-being and student engagement: postures, breathing, relaxation, and meditation. To be secular, yoga instruction follow several key grounding principles: teach practices that are research based, prioritize access and inclusion, eliminate religious content, and align with legal imperatives and secular ethics. A yoga teacher using a secular approach to yoga addresses important social-emotional values that enhance emotional and relational well-being within the context of a purely secular program.