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Helping Students Soar With Yoga

Therese M. Pope | May 19, 2008

Holistic Approach to Learning

In New York City, there is a dynamic team of sisters that is taking a holistic lead and introducing an innovative approach to learning. Academics Plus (http://www.academics-plus.com) was founded by Jacqueline LoBosco, Ph.D. and Michele LoBosco, co-authors of How to Ace the SAT Without Losing Your Cool.

According to Jacqueline LoBosco, the vision for their company was based on the belief that when young people are properly supported, guided and unconditionally encouraged, they are capable of achieving great success.

“Both my sister and I began tutoring while pursuing advanced academic degrees. Although it hadn’t been our intention to continue in this line of work, we quickly realized the value of interacting with students on a one-to-one basis and became passionate about guiding them in their quest to achieve their academic goals.”

“The Enlightened SAT Warrior Program”

As a result of working with students who were having difficulties with the SAT, these two sisters created “The Enlightened SAT Warrior Program.”

“In our years of working with students on an individual basis, what we’ve come to recognize is that what interferes with the ability to succeed, particularly on standardized tests such as the SAT, is often not lack of intelligence or knowledge of academic concepts, but variables such as stress, limiting self-concepts, and lack of self-knowledge or self-awareness,” explains LoBosco.

Students Learn to Relax

They teach an alternative approach, combining personal development strategies, relaxation techniques and academic tutoring all in one.

“We redesigned our approach to SAT preparation to incorporate not only instruction of math, verbal and grammar concepts, but techniques that would help them develop a better understanding of their own strengths, weaknesses, and tap into their motivation and drive to succeed. Breathing, focusing, visualization, and goal setting exercises are all integrated into the Enlightened SAT Warrior program.”

Improving Test Scores

The sisters were drawn to incorporating yoga into the program because it seemed like a natural fit, and would help clients reduce stress and testing anxieties before the SAT.

“When students begin to engage in mindful practices on a regular basis we often see noticeable improvements in their test scores. This is typically accompanied by a perceptible difference in their demeanor and comfort level about taking exams and doing well in school,” explains Jacqueline LoBosco.

Students Unlock Potential

LoBosco comments that her clients begin to see themselves as both learners and unique individuals with their own set of talents, strengths and weaknesses.

“It comes as no surprise to us that just a little bit of dedication to connecting with their inner selves can go such a long way. It seems to result in a more natural flow of energy and an unlocking of their potential.”

A New Model of Learning

Academics Plus is in the beginning stages of incorporating this new model of learning.

“We worked independently and used our own experiences as ‘students’ to incorporate mindful practices into the work we do. More recently, we have been enlisting the expertise of holistic experts, individuals with yoga and wellness centers, for support and advice.”

Experts Share Knowledge

LoBosco points out these experts have shared this knowledge with their clients, directly through newsletters and articles and indirectly, in their sessions with students.

“We look forward to working more closely with these individuals in the field as we grow and expand the holistic component of our center,” comments LoBosco.

Positive Impact on Students

Because yoga has become mainstreamed, yoga has become more accepted by traditional systems, especially when it positively impacts students’ learning and personal development.

“Because of my background in neuropsychology, we often work with students with learning differences. These individuals and their parents, as well as the learning specialists, guidance counselors, and educators, seem to be more forward thinking in terms of alternate approaches to learning. The response we get is mostly one of acceptance and interest,” says LoBosco.

The Future of Yoga and Education

Jacqueline and Michele LoBosco would like to see more enrichment centers across the country engage in a more holistic approach to learning.

“Think about it: children, at an early age, develop skills of self-examination and reflection and use them to assess what is truly important to them, as well as take the time to identify their values, interests, and goals.”

Students Achieve Success

The holistic vision of the program guides students to look towards their future and helps them recognize their own potential.

"Many young people take on the goals of their friends, parents, siblings, and don’t question what is really important to them. Once they know what is truly important to them, they can set out on a path to support themselves in doing things that matter – and that is going to lead to the highest level of success."