Tree. Mountain. Frog and down dog. More than 20 rising kindergarten through third graders struck yoga poses in the lights-out cafeteria thanks to Bovio Rubino Service. As part of its Game Changers in ‘25 initiative the youngest summer campers at the Gloucester County Boys and Girls Clubs’ Glassboro Center were treated to a yoga and mindfulness session with Laura Rubino of Higher Minds Yoga.
Game Changers in ’25 focuses on the physical and mental benefits of youth sports including agility, confidence, teamwork and leadership. It was a successful afternoon of calm and focus as Rubino took the campers through her energizing, self-affirming program.
Established in 2005, The Boys & Girls Clubs of Gloucester County seek to cultivate “safe, fulfilling and fun premier youth development programs that inspire all young people to reach their full potential as productive, caring and responsible citizens.”
Higher Minds empowers children and adults alike through movement, mindfulness and positive self-talk by creating accessible and engaging programs tailored to each audience, helping individuals manage stress and elevate their minds.
Rubino’s session included breathing exercises, conscious movement, character education, positive affirmations and mindful activities, expertly striking a balance between energy and stillness. Through an engaging, rhythmically paced approach, she captured the kids’ attention and instilled feelings of peace and focus. Musical sing-alongs and playful transitions ensured every camper had a positive time.
“Serving youth through yoga and mindfulness is at the heart of what we do at Higher Minds,” said Rubino. “I was so happy to visit the Boys & Girls Clubs and to share my practice with such a great group of kids.” The campers were all in!
Rubino started her career as an elementary school teacher and has more than 25 years of experience locally and abroad, holding a master’s degree in education and a New Jersey State Teacher’s License (K–8.) She is a Registered Yoga Teacher (RYT-500) with advanced certifications in yoga and meditation.
After starting her own yoga and meditation practice, Rubino quickly noticed the positive effects on her well-being. Encouraged, she incorporated yoga and mindfulness techniques into her
classroom. The difference was immediate — student behavior, concentration, social skills and performance all improved significantly. Rubino realized she wanted to share what she learned with others, helping reduce daily stress and elevate minds through ancient yoga practices.
Today, Higher Minds supports schools and communities through yoga programs, 6-week Youth Mindset Mentorships and weekly Mindful Minute videos on YouTube – all designed to help children thrive emotionally, mentally and physically. To learn more or explore these offerings, visit The Higher Minds or follow along at @highermindsyoga.
Bovio Rubino Service’s Game Changers in ’25 community outreach initiative made the Higher Minds session at the Boys & Girls Club of Gloucester County possible. Rubino’s session gave the Glassboro campers tools to reduce stress, build confidence and practice mindfulness — all skills they will carry for years to come.