Reflections and Recollections
Part 2

My involvement in the Integral Education Programme (IEP) started with a phone call from Kiruthika. She asked me if I would join the rest in becoming a facilitator. My first thoughts were to turn down the opportunity, as I did not have any prior experience on this matter. But Kiruthika insisted and added that everyone was new and that all of us would learn and teach together.

Jayanthy and I took the first physical education session together. I took the responsibility of teaching yoga. I have been learning yoga for quite some time and last year I did teach yoga to some small children. Thus, I was quite comfortable with regards to this topic.

On the first day I was quite anxious as to whether the children would be able to focus for the entire 1-hour duration. Also they may not have interest in yoga. The first thing that needs to be done in yoga is to slow your body down. Children have the most amount of energy in them. But the students changed these pre-conceived notions of mine completely. I was amazed at their enthusiasm to learn and their openness towards the topic throughout the 45 - minute programme. I chose the asanas that are especially for children and those that would help them relax during exams and increase their concentration levels. I also taught them the surya namaskar that helps to energise the whole body. I then did simple pranayama and ended off with a short yoga nidra.

The students followed the asanas very well. The Mother always said that one should keep oneself open, sincere and motivated and these students have all these qualities. I was touched when a student’s mom came forth to ask a question on her daughter’s behalf on why the classes were not held every Sunday.

All the facilitators meet up regularly to plan for the forthcoming topics. This helps us improve and learn ourselves. I would like to thank The Mother for giving me this opportunity to be part of this experience. I am not sure about how much the children have learnt from us but we all are learning a tremendous amount from this experience.

- Nisha

Om Namo Bhagavathe Sri Aravindaya Sharanam Mama

PHYSICAL EDUCATION

Children’s Reflections
Part 2

I am attending the Integral Education Programme conducted by the Sri Aurobindo Society. The last class was on physical education. We started class with meditation. After meditation we did some exercises for the eyes, knees, toes, shoulders and other parts of the body. I felt relaxed and good.

Then we went outdoors to play games. The games were on balance and co-ordination. In teams we had to balancing and co-ordinating exercises from one point to another, as in a race. It was enjoyable. I also learnt how to light candles.

We watched a TV show that showed us about co-ordination and balancing. We ended class with meditation. I am eagerly waiting for the next class.

- Niharika