If passed, SB 2872 would require public schools to teach children “relaxation activities to enhance the mental and physical health of students” at least once a week. These techniques include, but are not limited to, mindful-based movements, yoga, breathing, meditation, and guided relaxation and may take place in a social-emotional learning class. 

If these techniques don’t yet raise a red flag, please understand that many of these techniques are traditions of Buddhism, Jainism, and Hindu darshana (a deity or philosophy) which involve asana (poses), moves such as mudra (hand gestures) and pranayama (breathing discipline).

We are sorry to report that this proposal passed in the Illinois Senate on April 10th by a vote of 36 to 19. It is now pending in the Illinois House.