YOGA is helping pupils at St Patrick’s Primary to be more relaxed and ready to learn.

The school’s primary two children have enjoyed Yoga Bellies sessions, teaching them breathing exercises.

Angie McQueen of Enterprise Childcare runs the sessions and says they are based on yoga ‘with a modern twist’.

She said: “We are looking at an environment theme, based on the wind, wind turbines and wildlife.

“It’s very good for the children, as a lot of young people get stressed.

“They learn how to control their breathing and it helps them to relax.

“We have a butterfly move where they use their legs and it helps their breathing.

“Older children can do yoga for sport which helps build up confidence and friendships.”

Angie says yoga is shaking off its old image and is now being embraced by sports stars.

She said: “A lot of young footballers use yoga to build up their core and enhance their breathing.”

Teacher Lee Harvey believes her pupils are benefitting from giving yoga a try.

She said: “The children are really enjoying the class.

“It helps with their learning experience as well as the physical activity.”