Natomas High offers a physical education class that’s mostly mental because, after all, the mind responds to workouts, too.
Participating students may not gain speed, muscles or agility, but the benefits are just as important – maybe even more so — in living a long, healthy life.
Named “All About You,” the class focuses on the inner self, calmness, relaxation, and stress relief through breathing techniques, stretching and mindfulness that can improve students’ mental health and brighten their attitudes in school and at home.
“It helps me be relaxed, concentrate on school and be positive,” said Lizbeth, a 16-year-old sophomore.
Teacher Cynthia Corral said the PE class, which meets early each morning, typically starts with several minutes of mindfulness, meaning focusing on the present and pushing out thoughts that stress, strain, or spark anger or other strong emotion.
Yoga is the focus on some days, while other days spotlight Zumba or Pilates. Over the course of a semester, they combine to mix breathing techniques, mindfulness, exercise and dance movement into a curriculum of self-awareness and inner peace.
During one yoga class recently, the lights were off, students sat quietly on floor mats, and soothing instrumental music played in the background as Corral issued a series of breathing, stretching and mindfulness instructions.
“It’s coping tools,” Corral said. “It’s teaching them different tools to help cope with every-day life situations.”
When students feel stressed before a big test, for example, they can calm themselves by practicing breathing techniques learned in “All About You,” Corral said. Relaxation exercises don’t take long and they’re useful anytime and and anywhere.
Nighthawk students in 10th through 12th grades are eligible for the class, which is in its second year. Grading focuses largely on attendance and participation. The class meets in Natomas High’s gym and uses floor mats for stretching and reflection.
Corral said she has seen a significant difference in the attitudes of some “All About You” students. One parent said her son no longer needed high-anxiety medication after completing the class, Corral said.
Participating students give the class good reviews.
Tyler, 15, said “it actually works.”
“It helps you have a good day,” Tyler added. “Once you start off with mindfulness, you just feel happy, like you’ve finally found your inner self – and you just remain in peace.”
Because of the class, Nickolle, 17, said she sometimes does yoga at home now “to re-center myself.”
Leilani, 15, said that “if you feel any stress coming on, just close your eyes for a minute and just breathe, focus on your breath.”
“I’m a lot calmer than I used to be,” added Yuritzy, 15. “It helps me at night – like when I try to sleep. If I can’t sleep, I try (calm) breathing. And it helps a lot.”
