Illinois passes SB 2872, promotes yoga and meditation in schools
Earlier in 2024, I received an email from Yoga Alliance, asking if yoga professionals in the state of Illinois could sign a bill that permits school districts to provide at least 20 minutes of “relaxation activities” – specifically including yoga, meditation, breathing exercises, walking, and others – to enhance the mental and physical health of students as part of the school day.
As Illinois is my home state, I was proud to see such an initiative, so I signed it immediately. But with politics these days often taking a turn toward the unimaginable, I quickly forgot about my signature and kept my expectations low.
In October, I received an update on the bill; that Governor J. B. Pritzker signed SB 2872 into law. I was proud to see my home state take a significant step toward prioritizing the well-being of its students with the signing of SB 2872.
As someone who values holistic wellness, it’s heartening to see my state embracing practices that not only support students' academic success but also teach them essential life skills. We live in an age where stress, anxiety, and mental health challenges are increasingly prevalent. The ability to pause, breathe, and center oneself is more critical than ever. By integrating these practices into education, Illinois is equipping students with tools to navigate life’s challenges and fostering resilience, self-awareness, and emotional intelligence.
Public Act 103-0764 doesn’t just stop at yoga mats in classrooms; it represents a broader cultural shift. It shows that we’re finally recognizing the importance of mental and physical health in our education system. Teaching students how to cope, regulate their emotions, and find peace amidst the chaos of life is as essential as teaching them math or science.
What excites me even more is the community-driven approach behind this legislation. The bill’s success is a testament to the power of advocacy and collective action. Yoga professionals, educators, and wellness advocates came together to push for this change. Their voices were heard, and now countless students across Illinois will benefit.
I’m grateful to see so many organizations and individuals dedicated to making holistic wellness accessible to young people. Their commitment inspires me to deepen my focus on my yoga career, helping others discover tools to calm their nervous systems and reconnect with themselves.
As this legislation rolls out in January 2025, I can’t wait to see the positive impact it will have on our schools. To all the educators and yoga professionals in Illinois: thank you for your dedication to this cause. Together, we’re not just teaching children how to stretch or breathe—we’re teaching them how to thrive.
Here’s to Illinois leading the way in creating a more balanced, mindful, and healthy future for Illinois students and beyond.
And while I’m here, I’ll shout out some of the organizations that were pivotal in advocating for change…
Challenge to Change, Inc.
Marshawn Feltus, A.C.T. Yoga
Nina Helgeson, Youth Alliance Yoga
Jill Griffiths, former educator and administrator
Jenna Bell Rinaldi, Holistic movement coach
Erin Stevenson – Do Good Movement
Angie Swearingian – Yoga Learning Adventures
