A Yoga Trend All Denver Yogis Can Bark About

Denver is consistently featured in the top ten list of the friendliest dog cities in the US on a yearly basis. Which makes sense since Denverites typically bring their pooches everywhere they go - to work, cafes, on their daily jog - and now, they can even let their furry friends join them in a moment of zen at a yoga class.

It’s called “Doga” or dog yoga - and it allows dog lovers to conquer their fitness goals and enjoy puppy kisses all at the same time. Yoga is already one of the most relaxing forms of exercise, but science suggests that adding a four-legged pal can enhance its stress-reducing effects. Another added bonus? It’s not only beneficial to the practitioner, but it also makes teaching a class just a little bit more fun for the instructor as well.

“There is no greater joy than having puppies in your yoga class,” says Toni Baca of Denver-based yoga studio, Atherial. “Not only do our physical bodies benefit from a yoga class, but our furry friends spread smiles and improve our mental and emotional health as well.”

How can you jump on the Doga bandwagon?

There are a few different ways other yoga studios can partake in this fitness trend - one way is by offering a class where your clients can bring their dogs to join them on the mat. Just make sure your students are willing to provide proof of registration for their pet and are willing to show a current vaccination record to ensure a safe and fun practice for all those involved.

Or you can join forces with a Denver animal adoption center and really add some good karma to your studio like Atherial does. “We work with Paws for Productivity to spread the puppy love and let our clients play with pups up for adoption. If you sign up for our community class, the first Sunday of every month, you may get a puppy surprise,” says Baca.

Getting your down-dog on and also walking home with a pup in need of a loving home? We think that is a Sunday Funday well spent!