Yoga in Schools Stretches Students Bodies, Minds, and Hearts

by Jennifer J. Wieczorek

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As a dedicated yogi I know the benefits that keep me coming back to the mat. A partnership with Denver Public Health and The Wellness Initiative provided the opportunity to share the benefits of yoga at underserved schools in West Denver. Denver Public Health’s mission, “to promote, improve and protect the population’s health through disease prevention and health promotion activities, direct clinical care, and other health services” aligns with offering yoga programs in schools to increase physical activity, decrease stress, build community, encourage readiness to learn, and improve behavior. On a recent visit to KIPP Sunshine I had the pleasure of joining an after school yoga class. The students were captivated by their teacher, the yoga poses, and breathing techniques they were learning. TWI and their talented staff provide an opportunity for students to be present, honor themselves, share compassion, and take risks while strengthening their bodies. Although the students may not be aware they are expanding their minds and hearts at the same time, one visit is all it takes to witness the beneficial effects of yoga in schools.

Jennifer J. Wieczorek, MPH
Denver Public Health
Health Program Administrator

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