In the ever-evolving landscape of wellness, a heart-warming trend is capturing the hearts of India’s Gen Z, pet yoga. Combining traditional yoga practices with the joy of interacting with furry companions, pet yoga offers a unique blend of mindfulness and animal therapy. Beyond the mats and poses, this movement is fostering a deeper connection between humans and animals, promoting both personal well-being and pet adoption. Dhanush Kumar writes about the benefits of pet yoga and how to participate in this movement.
What is Pet Yoga?
Pet yoga, often referred to as doga (dog yoga) or cat yoga, involves practicing yoga in the presence of animals. Participants engage in standard yoga poses while animals, typically dogs or cats, roam freely, offering spontaneous interactions. These sessions are designed to be therapeutic, reducing stress and anxiety for humans while providing socialization opportunities for the animals.
The Emergence of Pet Yoga in India
While pet yoga has roots in Western countries, India has embraced and adapted the concept to align with its rich cultural tapestry. Organisations across major cities are now hosting pet yoga sessions, often collaborating with animal shelters to feature adoptable animals. These events serve dual purposes, promoting holistic health and encouraging pet adoption.
Leading Pet Yoga Initiatives in India
1. Pawga
Founded by Sinduja Krishnakumar, Subhashree Madhavan, and Swathi Renugopal. Pawga is India’s pioneering pet yoga initiative. Originating in Chennai, Pawga has expanded to cities like Hyderabad, Bengaluru, and Ahmedabad. Their sessions feature shelter puppies and kittens, aiming to boost adoption rates and support animal welfare. A portion of the proceeds is donated to local shelters, and attendees often have the opportunity to adopt the animals they connect with during the session.
2. Pawasana
Operating primarily in Hyderabad, Pawasana organises yoga sessions with shelter puppies. Beyond yoga, they host painting workshops where participants can create art alongside playful pups. These events are designed to raise awareness about indie dog adoption and support animal welfare initiatives.
3. Dear Doga
Dear Doga conducts pet yoga sessions across India, focusing on rescued indie dogs. Their mission is to find loving homes for these animals while promoting the therapeutic benefits of yoga. All proceeds from their sessions go towards the care and rescue of more animals.
Benefits of Pet Yoga
For Humans:
- Reduces stress and anxiety
- Enhances mood and emotional well-being
- Improves physical flexibility and strength
- Fosters a sense of community and connection.
For Animals:
- Provides socialization and human interaction
- Increases chances of adoption
- Offers a stimulating environment
- Raises awareness about animal welfare.
How to Participate
Interested individuals can join pet yoga sessions by following organizations like Pawga, Pawasana, and Dear Doga on social media platforms. These groups regularly post updates about upcoming events, locations, and registration details. Sessions typically last between 45 minutes to an hour and are open to participants of all yoga skill levels.
Conclusion
The rise of pet yoga in India signifies a beautiful convergence of wellness and compassion. For Gen Z, who values experiences that offer both personal growth and social impact, pet yoga presents an opportunity to nurture their well-being while making a difference in the lives of animals. As this trend continues to grow, it not only enriches the lives of participants but also paves the way for a more empathetic and connected society.
