#LifeisYoga
Gianyar, July 17, 2025 – A calm and reflective atmosphere enveloped Genta Saraswati School on a Thursday morning. Dozens of teachers gathered not for an ordinary meeting, but for a special session: a yoga and sound healing class. This commendable initiative by the school committee aimed to equip educators with mental and emotional balance before they welcome the new curriculum.
From 9:00 AM to 11:00 AM WITA, Mrs. Sawitri, an experienced yoga and sound healing practitioner, led a session that not only trained the body but also touched the inner self. She began by emphasizing the essence of yoga, which is often misunderstood.
“Yoga is not just exercise or a series of physical poses, but rather a union of the self. A union with our mind, body, and emotions,” Mrs. Sawitri calmly explained. “In Bali, there’s a philosophy that states this union of the self must be held in the heart while performing every pose. Because every asana (pose) is a form of joy, not just a mere physical movement, but how we unite ourselves with our breath.”
Mrs. Sawitri then explained the importance of pranayama techniques, specifically abdominal breathing or what’s known as breath of fire. This technique focuses on the second chakra, an area where emotions are often stored. “We hold our emotions in the second chakra. This is where all the storehouses of emotions are, especially for women,” she clarified, pointing to areas of the body that often hold emotional tension, such as the neck, feet, and abdominal area. This breathing technique serves to release pent-up emotions.
The session also highlighted the relevance of yoga for children. Mrs. Sawitri emphasized that children need concrete mediums for expression. “We cannot ask children to just sit quietly and meditate for extended periods. As facilitators, we must understand their unique needs,” she said. “Children are still honest; even if they can’t speak, they express themselves through attitudes and movements. Through yoga, we can accommodate each individual, whether it’s a child who tends to be quiet or one who is more expressive.”
Through this class, the teachers of Genta Saraswati School are expected to not only gain physical benefits but also develop self-awareness and emotional management skills. This is invaluable preparation that will not only benefit them personally but will also radiate into how they interact with and guide students under the new curriculum. A holistic step towards creating a more harmonious and supportive learning environment.