The Seed of Yoga in Mama Africa Pendo School

By Laura Schutter
Posted in Africa Yoga Project Blog, on February 16, 2017

Written by Anamaria Guerra Ferero

It is Friday, it looks like a normal day but for the children of Mama Africa Pendo School in Mathare, it is a special day, they start very early to ask teacher Mariana: When will the teacher Millie arrive? The seed of yoga is starting to germinate since the beginning of this year when Millie, Teacher of Africa Yoga Project, started to visit and spend quality time with these 20 children; boys and girls between 3 and 4 years old, who live in one of the most vulnerable areas of Nairobi.

When yoga class starts, all the children run out of the classroom to the courtyard to follow the instructions of Millie. They have a big smiles on their faces, a sign that they are happy and enjoying the activity. They start the class in a circle to warm up, recognizing themselves as part of a group, laughing and jumping in joy.

The courtyard of Mama Africa Pendo School on Fridays afternoon is transformed by the seed of yoga. Mariana, the teacher of the school, notices the effect that yoga has on her students. She perceives how the practice relieves the stress the children carry within, they are more flexible, fit, calmed, and after the classes, more aware and capable of sharing and integrating as a group.

In words of Mary Njeru, Founder of the School, they feel part of society, motivated and excited, and it doesn't matter if they live in a slum, yoga is everywhere, and thanks to Africa Yoga Project, for everyone.