“Yoga and Mindfulness Meditation in Education”

PIC 882025851

Next available sessions:

5-10 January 2026 (Mytilene, Lesvos)

13-18 July 2026 (Volos)

17-22 August 2026 (Volos)

Place: Mytilene, Lesvos Island and Volos, Greece

This Erasmus course is designed for adult educators who are interested in incorporating yoga and meditation practices into their classroom teaching. The course is ideal for those who wish to enhance their personal well-being and mindfulness skills, as well as improve their ability to support their students’ emotional and mental health.

Over the course of the program, participants will be introduced to a variety of yoga and meditation techniques, including asanas (postures), pranayama (breathing exercises), and mindfulness meditation. The course will also explore the science behind these practices and their potential benefits for both personal and professional use.

Through interactive workshops and experiential learning activities, participants will develop a deeper understanding of the connections between physical movement, breath, and mental focus. They will learn to apply these techniques in their own lives as well as in their teaching practices. The course will also provide opportunities for participants to reflect on their own experiences and how they can apply what they have learned to their specific teaching contexts and daily routine.

The course will be led by experienced yoga and meditation teachers who have a background in education. They will guide participants through various practices and provide personalized feedback and support throughout the program. The course will also include group discussions, peer learning, and collaborative activities to create a supportive and engaging learning environment.

Upon completion of the program, participants will have gained a deeper understanding of the benefits of yoga and meditation for personal well-being and professional use in teaching. They will have developed a toolkit of techniques that they can use to enhance their own practice and support the emotional and mental health of their students. They will also have a network of colleagues from different countries with whom they can continue to collaborate and share ideas.

No previous knowledge or experience is necessary.

At the same time, you come into contact with the culture of the region, get to know a borderline area of southeastern Europe, and live new experiences!

You can apply using the Registration Form

Course full program:

Day 1 – Monday: Introduction to Yoga & Meditation

Location : Purna Marga Lab, yoga center

1.Welcome circle and Participants presentations 

Start the day with a welcoming session where each participant introduces themselves and shares a bit about their background, interests and expectations from the course.

2. Icebreaker Activities

Engage in interactive icebreaker exercises designed to build rapport among participants and create a positive, energetic atmosphere. These activities will help everyone feel more comfortable and connected.

3. Introductory Yoga Practice: Meditation and Breathing

Move into a gentle yoga practice session that focuses on meditation and breathing techniques. This practical session will introduce participants to the basics of yoga, helping them to relax and center themselves.

4. Theory Session: Understanding Yoga and Its Benefits for Teachers and students

Conduct a comprehensive theory session that covers the essentials of yoga, including its historical background and philosophical foundations. Discuss the various benefits of yoga for educators and students.

Day 2 – Tuesday: Outdoor Yoga & Meditation in the Historic Setting of Mytilene

Location: Ancient Theater or Castle of Mytilene

1. Mindful Walking Meditation

Begin the day with a walking meditation around the beautiful historic site. This mindful walking practice encourages participants to connect with their surroundings and deepen their mindfulness skills.

2. Yoga nidra practice 

3. Creating a Mandala in Nature

Engage in a creative and meditative activity by creating a mandala using natural materials found in the surrounding environment. Participants will collect leaves, stones, flowers, and other natural items to design their own mandalas. This exercise promotes mindfulness, creativity, and a deeper connection with nature.

4. “Tree of Life” Narrative Therapy Technique

Continue with the “Tree of Life” technique, where participants reflect on their personal strengths, values, hopes and dreams. This activity helps participants connect with themselves and each other on a deeper level, fostering a sense of community and self-awareness.

5. SWAN Principle of Swami Niranjanananda

Explore the SWAN Principle as taught by Swami Niranjanananda, which focuses on self-awareness and self-regulation through the awareness of our Strengths, Weaknesses, Ambitions, and Needs. Discuss how this principle can be applied in both personal life and professional teaching environments.

6. Full Yoga Session

Conduct a comprehensive yoga session that incorporates the day’s teachings and practices. This session will include a series of postures, breathing exercises, and meditation techniques, allowing participants to fully immerse themselves in the yoga experience.

Day 3 – Wednesday: Deepening Practice and Mindfulness

Location : Purna Marga Lab, Yoga center

1. Morning Yoga Session and yoga nidra.

Start the day with a rejuvenating morning yoga session. This practice will include a series of postures and breathing exercises designed to energize the body and mind, setting a positive tone for the day.

2. Mindful Meditation

Following the yoga session, engage in a guided mindful meditation. This practice will help participants cultivate a deeper sense of presence and awareness, promoting mental clarity and emotional balance.

3. Mindfulness Activities

Participate in a series of interactive mindfulness activities. These exercises will help participants develop practical skills for maintaining mindfulness throughout the day, both personally and professionally.

4. Application Workshop: Integrating Mindfulness and Yoga in the Classroom

Conclude the day with a workshop focused on how to apply the concepts of mindfulness and yoga in the classroom setting. Participants will discuss strategies for integrating these practices into their teaching routines, with an emphasis on promoting a positive and supportive learning environment. Practical examples, case studies, and collaborative discussions will help participants formulate actionable plans for their classrooms.

Day 4 – Thursday: Yoga for Children and Classroom Techniques

Location : Purna Marga Lab, Yoga center.

1. Morning Yoga Session

Begin the day with a morning yoga session designed to energize and prepare participants for the day’s activities. This practice will focus on gentle postures and breathing techniques to foster a sense of calm and balance.

2. Yoga for Children

Explore the principles and practices of yoga specifically tailored for children. This session will cover age-appropriate yoga poses, playful activities, and mindfulness exercises that can be easily integrated into a classroom setting. Participants will learn how to make yoga fun and engaging for young students, promoting physical health and emotional well-being.

3. Additional Techniques for the Classroom

Delve into more advanced techniques for incorporating yoga and mindfulness into the classroom. This session will include: 

4. Practical Application Workshop

Conclude the day with a practical workshop where participants will develop personalized plans for integrating the new techniques into their own classrooms. This hands-on session will include group discussions, role-playing scenarios, and the sharing of best practices to ensure that participants feel confident in applying what they have learned.

Day 5 – Friday: Yoga by the Sea and Closing Activities

Location : to a beach close to the city

1. Morning Yoga Session by the Sea

Begin the day with a refreshing yoga session by the sea. This practice will harness the calming influence of the ocean, incorporating a series of postures and breathing exercises designed to invigorate the body and soothe the mind.

2. Mindful Swimming

Following the yoga session, engage in mindful swimming. This activity will combine the principles of mindfulness with the physical act of swimming, encouraging participants to stay present, feel the sensations of the water, and connect deeply with their environment.

3. Conclusion Session

Gather for a conclusion session where participants can reflect on their experiences throughout the course. This session will include:

• Group Reflection: Sharing insights, personal growth, and key takeaways from the week.
• Feedback Exchange: Providing constructive feedback on the course and discussing ways to continue practicing and integrating yoga and mindfulness into daily life and teaching.

4. Closing Ceremony

Conclude the week with a closing ceremony to celebrate the journey and achievements of the participants. This ceremony will include:

• Gratitude Circle: An opportunity for everyone to express gratitude for the shared experience.
• Farewell: Offering final words of encouragement and best wishes for future endeavors.

Day 6 – Saturday: Certificates and Cultural Activities or Spa Experience

1. Morning Certificate Presentation

Begin the day with a formal certificate presentation ceremony. This session will recognize and celebrate the accomplishments of each participant over the course of the week. Participants will receive their certificates of completion, marking their dedication and growth.

2. Cultural Activities or Spa Experience

Option A: Cultural Activities

Participants can choose to immerse themselves in the rich cultural heritage of Mytilene. Activities may include:

• Guided Historical Tour: Explore significant landmarks, historical sites, and museums to learn more about the region’s history and culture. You can choose one of the four options. One or two of the most popular choices will take place finally.

Plan A: Teriade and Theofilos museums

Plan B: Archeological museum of Mytilene

Plan C: Municipal Gallery of Mytilene

Plan D: Castle of Mytilene

Option B: Spa Experience

For those seeking relaxation and rejuvenation, participants can opt for a day of spa activities, which may include:

• Thermal Baths: Experience the healing properties of local thermal baths, known for their mineral-rich waters either in ottoman baths, jacuzzi, private bath or a swimming pool by the sea in a stunning view. 

The location of the Purna Marga Lab, Yoga center: