Children taking part in yoga
A CARDIFF primary has become the first school in Wales to achieve Mini Me Yoga accreditation.
Bryn Hafod Primary School, on Uphill Road, Llanrumney, will use the yoga programmes daily.
Wales is now one of 30 countries to embrace the scheme which promotes positive mental health and wellbeing.
“We are very excited to be the first school in Wales to be accredited as a Mini Me Yoga school,” said head teacher, Mrs Rhian Lundrigan.
“We wanted to actively promote and evaluate pupils’ spiritual, moral, social and cultural development.
“Pupils are more motivated and able to focus and concentrate for long periods of time. The pupils all enjoy the calm and relaxed environment that we create during these sessions.”
Over 80 members of staff, including teachers, assistants and catering staff took part in the training.
Celebration of achieving yoga accreditation
The yoga encourages children to understand and take control of their feelings using breathing, meditation and mindfulness.
“Yoga makes me feel happy and relaxed,” said year one pupil Bradley.
Hollie, aged seven, says she enjoys the different methods of yoga.
“Yoga makes me feel calm and happy because I like the warrior pose and colouring in the Mandalas.”
Rhys, aged six said: “My favourite pose is the Warrior. It’s so fun, I love yoga. It makes me feel bendigedig.”
Victoria Readings, Mini Me Yoga ambassador for Wales said: “All staff and children benefit as they are leaning techniques to self regulate and manage emotions.
“As a qualified teacher, I have seen the impact this has on both myself and the children in the classroom.
“Anything that supports children in a positive way is something we should all be encouraging and pushing forward to develop a happier world.”
Councillor Sarah Merry, cabinet member for education said: “I want to give a massive well done to Mrs Lundrigan, her staff and most of all the children for working so hard to become the first school in Wales to gain the accreditation.
“I can’t wait to see the children putting the things they have learnt in to practice the next time Mrs Lundrigan welcomes me to Bryn Hafod primary.”
Founder of Mini Me Yoga, Kate Bartram-Brown, said: “During this age where childhood diabetes, food intolerances and hyperactivity disorders are on the rise, the [yoga] activities bring time for children to express themselves.
