For the purpose of instruction, we present the general poses followed by suggestions for modifying the poses, referred to as variations for different age groups and abilities. These suggested age groups are in general; as you know, a 5-year-old can be as developmentally advanced as a 7- or 8-year-old, who can be in the same class with a student lagging behind in development. In addition, some students may be physically able to do more-advanced poses but emotionally have problems concentrating or listening to directions.
Infusion ideas are included with the poses. Infusion ideas are ways to enrich the learning experience by infusing other topics and subjects into the yoga class, making it a holistic activity. The instructions provided are as simple as possible, with a beginning stance or posture and a finishing stance or posture. Often, the finishing pose suggested is considered a balancing pose. In this case, balancing means bringing balance to the whole body. For example, if the pose involves a back bend or the spine is extended, then the finishing pose would involve back flexion to allow for a balanced practice.