We’re fur real – cat yoga is a thing! Anyone who’s taken a yoga class knows that many of the asanas (poses) are named for animals. For example, some classes start with a sequence of “cat-cow” stretches, warming up the spine in preparation for the rest of the practice. But perhaps you weren’t aware of a new trend that brings live animals into the yoga studio. Though we aren’t aware of any studios that’ve brought cows into their sanghas (yoga communities), cats are a different matter. In fact, cat yoga classes have recently taken the nation by storm. An upcoming cat yoga course is currently in progress at the Humane Society of Harford County. We asked the organization’s marketing coordinator, Erin Long, why she believes this trend is the cat’s meow.
1. What’s up with cat yoga?
Our executive director, Jen Swanson, is really into yoga, and she always wanted to offer a cat yoga class.
2. The appeal?
It’s a win-win. Yoga has so many physical and emotional health benefits for people and it also brings them into the humane society, so our cats get more exposure.
3. Reactions?
When we [first] offered the class, we didn’t know what would happen. We’re really excited that our first three-month session [February-March] was sold out!
4. How does the class work?
We handpick the cats, since we know their personalities and can make sure they all get along. Then, we bring them into the room. They can be distracting, so if you’re super into yoga this may not be the class for you. A kitty may come up to you when you’re in a pose. It depends on their personalities. Some are more aloof, and some are curious and interactive. It’s interesting to see what happens.
5. Your hopes for the class?
We would love to see it grow and have it as a regular option. It’s a great way to educate people about how wonderful a cat companion can be. Just being around cats, petting them, it’s very soothing. Of course, we are hoping it will lead to finding homes for them.
For information about the Humane Society of Harford County, visit harfordshelter.org.
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