Superbrain Yoga

In order to promote international mindedness and the diversity of our cultures and languages, we have started to look at life in other countries and the best practice we can learn from others.  Recently, we have been looking at what life is like in schools and the struggles that some children have to go through to obtain an education.  The students learnt the negative consequences of disobedience in the classroom and how one of the punishments is actually an ancient technique that many people in the West have adopted due to its benefits.

What is it?

A very old practice that goes back thousands of years, originally given to students who were weak in their studies so that it would increase intelligence.  At some point in history, it became a popular form of punishment in classrooms to make students hold their earlobes with arms crossed over the chest and then to alternate between standing and squatting.

It is a form of acupressure and breathing technique used to balance both sides of the brain.  This brain training exercise is widely used nowadays by doctors and teachers to improve grades and mental focus even amongst those who are disabled.

What are its benefits?

In the last four decades, lots of research has been carried out by scientists.  The findings are that the exercise increases blood flow to the brain and synchronises both sides of the brain to promote alertness, calmness, intelligence and better productivity.  It also helps with special needs, learning difficulties, behavioural problems and to balance emotions.

How to do it?

1. Remove jewellery.

2. Stand up straight, facing the East.

3. Place your tongue on the roof of your mouth, behind your teeth as if you are going to make the “la” sound.  Keep the tongue in place throughout the exercise.

4. Hold your right ear with your left hand using the thumb and forefinger.  Keep your thumb on the front.

5. Hold your left ear with your right hand using the thumb and forefinger.  Keep your thumb on the front.

6. Inhale deeply through your nose and bend your knees and lower your body down towards the ground.

7. Exhale as you lift your body back up.

8. Repeat up to 15 or 21 times everyday.

9. If the exercise is done on a daily basis then benefits will be seen in about three weeks.

Pictures show the students of Grade 4 practicing the technique known as “Superbrain Yoga.” We do it for one minute every morning.