BWY Launches Green Yoga Initiative at Leicestershire Schools
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The British Wheel of Yoga (BWY) has partnered with the Learn Academies Trust in Leicestershire to introduce outdoor yoga sessions at South Kilworth and Meadowdale Primary schools. This Green Yoga initiative aims to strengthen connections with nature and improve wellbeing.
A recent study from the University of Southampton and National Institute for Health and Care Research (NIHR) highlights concerns over rising obesity rates among primary school children with one in four now classified as obese. It emphasises the need for healthier lifestyle choices.
The Green Yoga initiative combines physical activity with an immersion in nature, with children practicing yoga in areas newly planted with trees. Yoga is well-known to improve mood and boost wellbeing and it also requires minimal outdoor space compared to other sports.
“Through this partnership, we aim to pioneer a sustainable approach that promotes healthier lifestyles and environmental awareness among young learners,” said Diana O’Reilly, BWY Chair. “By nurturing a connection with nature through yoga practice, this initiative empowers children with lifelong skills to support both environmental stewardship and their own mental wellbeing.”
Liz Martin, Head Teacher at Meadowdale Primary School said, “We are fortunate to have lots of outside space which our children can use and engage with every day, and as such we were thrilled to welcome the BWY to lead a workshop. The children have loved learning about a new activity and how it links to nurturing their mind, body and the trees we planted earlier in the year. They have loved being outdoors and exercising in a calm and thoughtful way, enjoying the whole experience from start to finish.”
“We’d love to have this yoga lesson again. Maybe every Friday afternoon or definitely after we have finished our SATs next year.” Year 5 pupil, South Kilworth Primary School
About Learn-AT Schools
Learn Academies Trust was established in September 2016 to serve children and families in Church of England and Community schools across Leicestershire. The organisation grew from a group of local Market Harborough primaries who had been working together in a collaborative trust since 2012. Today there are 19 schools in the trust. For further details please visit https://www.learnat.uk/
About BWY
The British Wheel of Yoga (BWY) is committed to sharing yoga’s transformative power and rich heritage through events and education. Guided by yoga’s principles and traditions, BWY’s mission is to enrich lives through yoga, increasing accessibility and inclusivity. Established as a registered charity in 1965 and recognised as the National Governing Body for Yoga by Sport England and Sport Wales, BWY serves more than 5000 members and is supported by a 100-strong local volunteer network and a small central team.
For all media inquiries
Natalie Lyndon
BWY PR & Communications Officer
