"I am grateful to SAM for this yoga session for my students. I hope my students become wiser like SAM volunteers and I look forward to any kind of collaboration with SAM in the future," remarked Dr. Vandana Gupta, the principal of GD Goenka Public School, Rohini, Sector 22, reflecting on a morning that was anything but ordinary.
On May 17, 2024, the school hall was abuzz with energy and anticipation as students, teachers, and the principal gathered for a special event organized in collaboration with SAM Workshops, a youth empowerment initiative by DJJS. The session aimed at helping students manage their physical health and regulate their emotions through the practice of yoga.
The event kicked off with an introduction to SAM and a short video that encapsulated the organization's inspiring journey in youth empowerment. This introduction set a motivational tone for what was to follow.
Leading the session were Ms. Neha and Ms. Vatika, SAM Volunteers, and certified yoga trainers from the Morarji Desai Institute of Yoga. With their extensive experience in Hatha Yoga, Ashtanga Vinyasa, and Yoga Therapy, they expertly guided the students through a series of exercises and poses designed to promote both physical health and emotional balance.
The session began with a warm-up that included Spot Jogging, High Knees, Squats, Frog Jump (Mandukasana), and Chakki Chalana Kriya. These exercises served as an energizing prelude to the more complex asanas introduced later. The students, alongside their teachers and principal, performed poses such as Kaliasana, Padhangushthan Asana, Marichaya Asana, Setu Bandh, and Shavasana. The trainers emphasized the importance of rhythmic chanting, Pranayama (Deep breathing) and relaxation techniques, aiming to rejuvenate the mind and body.
As the students practiced these asanas, the hall was filled with a sense of calm and focus, demonstrating the session's effectiveness in promoting mindfulness. The activities were meticulously designed to help students balance their emotions and maintain good physical health, thereby preventing detrimental habits like overeating, excessive social media use, sleep disturbances, and lack of motivation.
After these invigorating asanas, Sadhvi Dr. Shivani Bharti Ji addressed the students, shedding light on the importance of overall well-being and encouraging them to adopt a balanced lifestyle through various activities.
The students’ feedback was overwhelmingly positive. Many expressed feelings of rejuvenation and a desire for more such sessions in the future. In recognition of their enthusiastic participation, students and teachers were awarded the "SAMite" badge, symbolizing their commitment to health and mindfulness.
The ‘Bend it like Yogis’ session at GD Goenka Public School was more than just a physical exercise; it was a holistic approach to education that emphasized the importance of well-being.
With the support of SAM Workshops, the school has taken a significant step towards integrating wellness into its educational framework, fostering a healthier, more balanced future for its students. This event, marked by the active participation and heartfelt gratitude of the principal, Dr. Vandana Gupta, stands as a testament to the transformative power of yoga and mindfulness in the lives of young learners.
