‘Pawsitive’ Flow – Yoga Inspired Stretch & Play 4

‘Pawsitive’ Flow – Yoga Inspired Stretch & Play*No actual animals will be involved -just humans, and ‘human puppies’.We are doing yoga a little differently! Let’s bring a little light-heartedness into our adult & SW community. This all-inclusive yoga-inspired class combines stretching with playful ‘human’ pups, focusing on the experience of joy, fun, and connection, while easing towards strength-building, flexibility, and emotion-wellbeing. Pups are invited to play around yoga participants, and with the other pups, but also to work on following puppy training commands given by the instructor. We will create special stretches just for this class to embody our ‘Puppy-play’ mindset that can be adapted for all ability levels. Handlers can support other participants from the sidelines by keeping an eye on those rambunctious pups, and stepping in if they get to rowdy. Laughing and having fun is ok! On the mat, you can take a break from the outside world and the mundane. During the hour-long class, you’ll find a supportive space to explore movement and to release and reduce stress. The unpredictability of puppies moving around us will be a pleasant distraction while we find balance, lengthen posture, and engage core stability. Unlike other yoga classes, we invite pups to interact with yoga participants, but with respect for their consent. Consent cards will be placed beside participants, indicating their desire to interact with our ‘4-legged friends’. The card can be turned over at any time consent changes to stop interactions with the pups. We will also ask you to communicate with our instructor to ‘opt-in’ for physical corrections for improving poses.It’s good for the puppies too! Play boosts endorphins and lowers cortisol levels and burns off energy in a pawsitive way. For this pup socialisation, we will leave aggression and territoriality at the door, in order to foster bond-building among members of the community. It can be a moment to escape every-day life, to observe, to increase confidence, to learn etiquette, or to reinforce existing training in a soft, non-judgemental environment. Barking and playful growling must be within reasonable levels but are allowed. Meeting others who share our love for puppies may also provide future opportunities for “adopting” a pup or finding a handler. Details:10-12 yoga participants, 10-12 puppies & handlers max, reservation required.Class starts on the hour; no late comers allowed in after that time. Arrive up to 20 mins in advance to change, socialise, and get your mat ready on the floor. Other humanimals are welcome, but all activities are puppy-centric.Yoga Participants: $20. We encourage minimal fetish attire (covering the genitals) but go with your comfort level if you prefer a short/legging & t-shirt. Bring an exercise mat, towel, and water bottle. Puppies: $10 or pay what you can (donation goes to the space). Wear your puppy gear! We encourage hoods, paws, harnesses, or just a simple collar and genital cover/short/legging if that’s what you have. Mistr Bear is a recommended source. Bring your water bowls and toys (ex. tennis balls, chew toys).Handlers: $10 or pay what you can (donation goes to the space). We encourage fetish attire. Bring a leash and treats for your pup, and a water bottle for yourself.