Breathing Life into PE Class : A Teacher's Journey

MAHPERD "Voices From The field"

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How can physical education teachers incorporate yoga in ways that benefit all students? Award-winning P.E. teacher Kristen Santos takes us on her unexpected journey from cancer diagnosis to becoming a leading advocate for yoga in physical education.
When Kristen's oncologist first recommended yoga during her breast cancer treatment in 2016, she was skeptical. "I thought it was for old, middle-aged women," she admits candidly. That reluctance transformed into passion as she discovered how breathing techniques and mindful movement helped her navigate life's challenges. "Yoga doesn't solve your problems," she reflects, "but it helps you deal with them."
Drawing from 27 years of teaching experience, Kristen shares practical strategies for making yoga accessible in middle school PE classes. Her innovative approach includes creating yoga-based games, developing trauma-informed language practices, and connecting yoga to athletes like LeBron James who credit it for their athletic longevity. The conversation explores her published curriculum books that provide complete lesson plans for K-8 teachers, including assessments, visual aids, and activities that align with physical education standards.
What sets Kristen's method apart is her focus on teaching students specific breathing techniques they can use to self-regulate during conflicts. Rather than simply telling students to "calm down," she provides concrete tools that stimulate the vagus nerve and genuinely help students manage emotions. Her "Yoga Code of Conduct" establishes clear expectations while teaching transferable skills students can use throughout their lives.
Whether you're a PE teacher looking to diversify your curriculum, an educator interested in supporting students' emotional regulation, or someone curious about making mindfulness more accessible, this episode offers valuable insights and practical resources.

Connect with Kristen:

• Insta @yogainphysed
• Website www.yogainphysed.com
• Email [email protected]
• Find the book on Amazon

Chapters

1. Introduction to Kristen Santos (00:00:00)

2. Finding Yoga Through a Diagnosis (00:04:17)

3. Teaching PE in Middle School (00:07:24)

4. Yoga Curriculum Books for PE (00:09:19)

5. Creating Safe Spaces Through Trauma-Informed Practice (00:17:19)

6. Professional Development and Future Goals (00:23:07)

7. Contact Information and Resources (00:33:21)