Yoga for young lungs

The student community at Harmony Primary School have united to support a classmate battling chronic lung disease by participating in a Breathe Easy Yoga fundraiser.

Their efforts raised $3,250 which will go towards a boredom buster library on the respiratory ward at the Perth Children’s Hospital, supporting children such as Natalie Hoysted. 

Natalie, a student at Harmony Primary School, was born at 26 weeks and two days gestation, weighing a mere 445 grams. She was 26cm long from head to foot, making her one of the smallest babies to be born at the Perth Children’s Hospital. 

As a result, Natalie faced the diagnosis of bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD), more commonly known as chronic lung disease of prematurity. 

Natalie is one of nine children in WA who is a Lung Warrior Ambassador, spreading awareness of childhood lung conditions.  

Natalie’s mother, Sandy Hoysted, was reminded just how lucky her daughter is to be part of such a welcoming school community.  

“From the very beginning, we’ve felt nothing but kindness from the staff, students, and other parents,” Mrs Hoysted said. 

“The Breathe Easy Yoga event really embodied that spirit, it wasn’t just about awareness, it was about inclusion, resilience, and coming together for something bigger than us.” 

Harmony Primary School Principal, Craig Anderson, said the event was a huge success. 

“I am super proud and excited to have been able to support our very own Lung Warrior Ambassador and student, Natalie,” Mr Anderson said.

 “In doing so, we have been able to reinforce for our students and their families our three core expectations of respect, resilience and responsibility.” 

As well as raising much needed funds, Harmony Primary School teacher and yoga instructor, Emma Cowling, was able to raise awareness of the importance of breathing in attaining and maintaining health and wellness.  

Through a carefully choreographed yoga sequence, participants were able to learn new skills and strategies to achieve a calm and centred state of being. 

For more information about The Lung Warrior, visit the website.