2.5 Learn Yoga from Animals – Class 7 – Balbharati

Author: Informational Text

Genre: Informative / Health & Wellness Prose

Textbook: English Balbharati – Class 7

Board: Maharashtra State Board

English Summary

Learn Yoga from Animals is an informational lesson explaining the importance of yoga and how many yoga postures are inspired by animals. Yoga, perfected in ancient India, is a system of physical, mental, and spiritual discipline that improves balance, focus, flexibility, and strength. The lesson also connects yoga with the modern concept of biomimicry, which means learning from nature to solve human problems. Several well-known poses are described, such as Bhujangasana (Cobra Pose) for strengthening the back, Simhasana (Lion Pose) for energy release, Marjaryasana (Cat Pose) for stretching, Garudasana (Eagle Pose) for balance, and Ustrasana (Camel Pose) for chest and spine flexibility. The text also provides basic precautions: beginners should learn under a teacher, practise in a clean and airy place, and prefer early mornings. The lesson emphasises that yoga is not just exercise but a way of life that keeps body and mind vibrant.

Theme / Central Idea

The central idea is that yoga, inspired by animals and nature, helps maintain physical health and mental well-being. It teaches discipline, balance, and harmony between body and mind.

Character Sketches(Not a story with characters, but focus on roles.)

Yoga Practitioner

• Learns from nature and animals.

• Practices discipline and follows instructions.

• Gains flexibility, balance, and strength.

• Represents the ideal of harmony between body and mind.

  
  

Animals in Yoga

• Cobra, lion, cat, eagle, camel – their postures inspire asanas.

• Each animal symbolises certain qualities like strength, balance, or energy.

Word Meanings

Grammar Questions (5)

1. Infinitive / Gerund

   Sentence: “Yoga helps to improve concentration.”

   Infinitive: to improve – shows purpose.

   
   

2. Passive Voice

   Active: Teachers teach yoga to students.

   Passive: Yoga is taught to students by teachers.

   
   

3. Modal Auxiliary

   Sentence: “You should practise yoga every day.”

   Should shows advice.

   
   

4. Tense Change

   Direct: The instructor said, “Practise yoga in the morning.”

   Indirect: The instructor said that they should practise yoga in the morning.

   
   

5. Wh-Question Framing

   Statement: Bhujangasana strengthens the back.

   Question: Which asana strengthens the back?

   
   

Personal Response Questions (5)

1. Why do you think yoga is compared to biomimicry?

   Yoga is compared to biomimicry because it copies the movements of animals and nature. Just as science learns solutions from nature, yoga imitates animal postures to improve human health.

   
   

2. Which animal-inspired asana do you find most interesting? Why?

   I find the Lion Pose most interesting because it is energetic and fun. The roaring action reduces stress and gives confidence. It also strengthens the throat and facial muscles.

   
   

3. What precautions should beginners take while practising yoga?

   Beginners should practise under a teacher’s guidance. They must choose a clean and airy place, use a mat, and practise before meals. These precautions ensure safety and effectiveness.

   
   

4. What benefits do you get from practising yoga regularly?

   Regular yoga improves flexibility, posture, balance, and strength. It also sharpens concentration and reduces stress. It makes both body and mind healthy.

   
   

5. Would you like yoga to be a part of your daily routine? Why?

   Yes, I would like yoga to be part of my daily routine because it keeps me active and stress-free. It also helps me focus better on studies and makes me feel positive.

True or False (5)

1. Yoga was developed in ancient Greece. → False (It was perfected in India.)

2. Biomimicry means solving human problems by copying nature. → True

3. Bhujangasana is inspired by the posture of a cobra. → True

4. Garudasana improves body balance and strengthens muscles. → True

5. Yoga should always be practised after heavy meals. → False (It should be done before meals.)

Probable Board / Exam Questions (5)

1. What is yoga and what does it involve?

   Yoga is an ancient Indian discipline of mind, body, and spirit. It involves physical postures, concentration, and breathing exercises that improve health and focus.

   
   

2. How is yoga connected to animals and nature?

   Yoga is connected to animals and nature because many asanas imitate their postures. Cobra, lion, cat, eagle, and camel poses are examples where nature inspires humans.

   
   

3. What are the precautions to be taken while practising yoga?

   Yoga must be practised under a teacher, in a clean and airy place, preferably before meals. Beginners should follow steps carefully to avoid injury.

   
   

4. What are the benefits of Bhujangasana and Simhasana?

   Bhujangasana tones back muscles, strengthens the spine, and benefits chest and shoulders. Simhasana energises the body, improves throat health, and reduces stress.

   
   

5. What lesson does the lesson Learn Yoga from Animals give us?

   The lesson teaches that yoga is not just exercise but a way of life. Inspired by animals, yoga improves strength, focus, and harmony. It shows that nature is our greatest teacher.

   
   

Appreciation / Reflection Paragraph

Learn Yoga from Animals is an informative lesson that connects ancient yoga with modern science of biomimicry. The detailed description of animal-inspired asanas makes it practical and interesting. The lesson balances health knowledge with cultural pride, reminding us that yoga is India’s gift to the world. Its message that discipline and harmony bring well-being is valuable for students. The lesson is memorable because it inspires us to respect nature, practise yoga, and lead a healthy life.

About BhashaLab

BhashaLab is a dynamic platform dedicated to the exploration and mastery of languages - operating both online and offline. Aligned with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 and the National Credit Framework (NCrF), we offer language education that emphasizes measurable learning outcomes and recognized, transferable credits.

We offer:

1. NEP alligned offline language courses for degree colleges - English, Sanskrit, Marathi and Hindi

2. NEP alligned offline language courses for schools - English, Sanskrit, Marathi and Hindi

3. Std VIII, IX and X - English and Sanskrit Curriculum Tuitions - All boards

4. International English Olympiad Tuitions - All classes

5. Basic and Advanced English Grammar - Offline and Online - Class 3 and above

6. English Communication Skills for working professionals, adults and students - Offline and Online

Contact: +91 86577 20901, +91 97021 12044

Mail: info@bhashalab.com

Website: www.bhashalab.com