What Is Cat Yoga?

From deep stretches to stretching out on your yoga mat, it’s no secret that cats were made for yoga. For enthusiasts, there are some yoga flows that are designed to get your cat to join in. And yes, your cat can do yoga!

Here’s what cat yoga is, how it works, and how to bond with your cat while getting a nice, deep stretch.

How Cat Yoga Works

Cat yoga blends two similar elements together, but in more ways than you think. The most obvious way that cats and yoga mix is through deep stretches.

To get started with cat yoga, simply unroll your yoga mat and begin your routine. It should only take a minute or so for your cat to become too curious to keep away. Instead of trying to shoo your cat away or letting your cat distract you, continue your yoga flow while being mindful of where your cat is.

But yoga isn’t just about stretching! Yoga provides a time for introspection and mindfulness, a chance to focus on breathing while letting stressors and distractions float away.

Similarly, cats are great at soothing people, and spending time with your cat can be incredibly relaxing.

By mixing yoga and quality time with your cat, you can enjoy the best of both worlds!

Yoga Poses to Do With Cats

Ready to start some cat yoga? Here are poses that can get the flow started.

Downard-Facing Dog

When you stretch into a downard-facing dog, your cat will probably crawl underneath you. While your cat is just enjoying being close to you and the natural protection you provide, you can use your cat as motivation to hold your pose and stretch deeper.

Cat-Cows

Yes, cat pose is perfect with cats! Cat-cows see you build a table top and stretch out your back. Similar to downward-facing dog, your cat will probably crawl under you, but adventurous kitties might jump on your back! Think of this as an added challenge to your yoga routine.

Child’s Pose

Child’s pose is very similar to that deep stretch your cat makes when it wakes up. While you get a big stretch, your cat may be encouraged to take a deep stretch right next to you.

Halfway Bend

From a standing pose, bend halfway to flatten your back, stretching your hips and hamstrings. To keep this pose, put your cat on your back and enjoy the gentle stretch. You can also try to switch into a balancing pose with your cat on your back for an added challenge!

Is Yoga Good For Cats?

Yes, yoga is great for cats! Cats are some of the best stretchers around, and doing yoga with your cat can be a great way for you two to bond. If you don’t do yoga at home much or rarely roll out your mat, trying out cat yoga at home could be a great way to get out of a rut. Your cat might also appreciate something new, especially if they’ve been suffering from boredom.

Where Can I Do Cat Yoga?

Many studios offer cat yoga, with some providing the cats and others asking you to bring your cat along. Sometimes, special cat yoga pop-up events occur, so keep your ears to the ground for local gatherings!

While cat yoga is available at studios around the world, the easiest place to do cat yoga is at home. Doing yoga at home means you can start and stop on your own schedule. Also, many cats prefer not to travel far from home if they don’t have to, so your cat will be much more relaxed doing yoga at home than at a studio.

Of course, you’ll need a yoga mat, yoga blocks, and a band. Aside from that, you should be able to find mindful cat yoga videos on Youtube with ease.

Thomas Short
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