lifestyle & living
Unlike us, they’ re not distracted by screens, weighed down by an ever-growing to-do list, or busy multitasking and worrying about tomorrow. They’ re simply here, in the moment, happy to spend time together.
The next Downward Dog for Dogs event
Mandela Day Pawlates at The Movement Lab on Saturday 18 July: a 67-minute Pilates class with pups to benefit animal shelters.
www. downwarddogfordogs. com
And the bonus?“ Seeing how much your dog enjoys being fully immersed in the moment with you can inspire you to follow their lead,” says Michelle.
Strengthening our pet bonds
Dogs are loyal to a fault but, as Michelle explains, they’ re also acutely attuned to their owner’ s emotions.“ When we’ re relaxed and happy, dogs sense that and feed off it.” So naturally, when you’ re doing something together that you both enjoy, you’ ll walk away feeling happier and more connected.
“ I’ ve seen time and again how animals gravitate towards people doing yoga – they truly love the vibes,” Michelle shares.“ Ultimately, any shared activity is an opportunity to bond with your dog, if we’ re willing to invest the time.”
Physical and mental benefits
Michelle’ s first priority is understanding what your dog enjoys, then tailoring your yoga sessions to enhance their experience alongside you.
“ For instance, a senior dog who loves the sun might enjoy lying on a comfy bed next to you while you practise on the grass, offering a gentle pat whenever your posture allows,” she explains.
She adds that a high-energy pup who loves learning tricks could thrive by joining in – responding to cues like“ sit”,“ crouch”, or“ lie down” as you move through different poses.
“ Much like finding a form of yoga that best suits you, you can maximise mental stimulation, relaxation, or physical exertion in ways that best serve your dog’ s individual needs.”
At Downward Dog for Dogs, the ultimate goal is even bigger: facilitating yoga classes with shelter dogs to help them find loving homes.
Adding more joy
“ One thing about your dog is that they will humble you and remind you not to take life too seriously,” laughs Michelle. Don’ t aim for perfection. If you’ re practising yoga with your dog, expect a little( okay, maybe a lot) of chaos. But, as Michelle points out, isn’ t life itself a little chaotic?
“ Allowing yourself to step back and find joy in being in your body, connecting to your breath, and tapping into mindfulness – observing your emotions, thoughts, and responses during this fun time with your dog – can teach you more about yoga than hours of rigid postures ever could.” www. petpals. co. za 55