On Mar. 26, in cooperation with Carnegie Hall’s Creative Classrooms, students in Mrs. Deborah W. Johnson’s second grade class at Ronceverte Elementary School participated in a workshop entitled “Yoga Motion,” with instructor Kelli Martin.

Yoga’s history has many places of obscurity and uncertainty due to its oral transmission of sacred texts and the nature of its teachings. The early writings on yoga were transcribed on fragile palm leaves that were easily damaged, destroyed or lost. The development of yoga can be traced back to over 10,000 years ago, according to some researchers.

Mrs. Martin guided the children through the history of yoga beginning with the book I am Yoga. She then discussed the classical language of India which is called Sanskrit and went over “yoga” vocabulary. Yoga is a group of physical, mental, and spiritual practices or disciplines which originated in ancient India. It can be used in the management of stress, to increase flexibility, gain strength, conflict resolution, building self- confidence and self- reflection, in addition to the physical benefits.

Spreading out in the school’s gymnasium with parent volunteers, the class learned various yoga stretches and poses. Later, Mrs. Martin broke the class into groups and each group created their own “Yoga Skit” using the poses they learned. “My legs were burning after I did the chair pose for my skit. But it was fun,” said Kamilla, a student in Mrs. Johnson’s class.

After returning to the classroom, students began journaling about their Yoga experience and how they felt about creating their Yoga Skit. Time was provided to write, draw, color and discuss the workshop. “I really enjoy teaching yoga to kids,” said Mrs. Martin.

“This was truly an interactive learning experience for my students. Mrs. Martin did a fantastic job keeping the presentation on grade level and keeping the students engaged. We are fortunate to have Carnegie Hall and their Arts in Education Program,” stated Johnson

Students and parent volunteers provided positive feedback on the program, which is one of several Carnegie Creative Classroom presentations underwritten by Greenbrier County Schools and other supporters. More information on the program(s) are available and may be obtained by contacting Leah Trent, Educational Director at 304-645-7917 or going to www.carnegiehallwv.org.