Relaxing and Realigning with Kitten Yoga

It’s well-known that time with animals relieves stress. It’s difficult to cuddle with a happy, playful kitten and not feel at least a little better about the dark, dark world. At Homeward Pet, we thought we could do one better by combining two stress-relieving activities into one: light yoga and time with a goofy litter of kittens.

And so once the 20 or so yogis lined up their mats around the room, we brought in the carriers with the five kittens and their mama inside. Lots of squeals, laughter, and awws accompanied the kittens’ dramatic entrance. Sweet Potato, Rutabaga, Turnip, Beet, Carrot, and Radish bounded around the room to the enjoyment of their audience, occasionally adjusting visitors’ forms with well-placed jumps. Yoga instructor Vicki generously donated her time, leading the whole group in relaxation and stretching despite the (frequent!) distractions.

It wasn’t a traditional yoga class by any means, but we’re pretty sure everyone had a good time. A few participants paused in their poses when kittens leapt on their backs.  Savasana, where yogis lay quiet and still on the floor in the name of relaxation, was punctuated by laughter from kittens bouncing from stomach to stomach. Turnip and Radish, more cuddlers than exercise enthusiasts, spent most of the class snuggling in participants’ arms while Rutabaga, Carrot, and Beet hammed it up, leaping at ponytails, phone screens, and anything vaguely interesting.

All participants left with a strong knowledge of Cat Pose, which our kitten instructors were very gracious in teaching them.

With the success of the first session, Kitten Yoga Round 2 will be happening on October 9. Tickets sold out within 4 hours of being released; the kitten instructors say they’re “very, very excited” for the second session and “can’t wait to inspire relaxation and positivity” with their antics.