3 minute read
5 Benefits of Doga
For You And Your Pup 5 Benefits Of Doga
Yoga is a physical, mental and spiritual practice that has been around for centuries. By now, we know yoga is one of the best things you can do for your body and mind and been proven to have many health benefits from the breathing exercises, strength exercises, and stretching components. Studies have even shown that it can help with pain, addiction and depression as well. But have you considered doing yoga with your dog? Dubbed as Doga, there are some great reasons for pet owners to try this growing health trend. DOGA? The concept was created by Suzi Teltelman, a Jacksonville, FL yoga teacher, and is a great way to get exercise for yourself and your dog. Even though dogs can’t actually do most of the normal yoga poses, they will enjoy the stretching, pet massage and soothing energy doga sessions provide. Not to mention all of the attention they’ll get! However, dogs are temperamental creatures and shouldn’t be forced to participate. If your dog doesn’t seem interested, don’t force it upon them. Listen to their body language and be mindful.
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5 BENEFITS OF DOGA Not everyone in the yoga community is comfortable with the idea of integrating pets into yoga sessions. However, there may be potential benefits for both you and your pup.
One BONDING WITH YOUR DOG Yoga has been proven by scientific studies to benefit human bodies and minds, but there isn’t as much research about the benefits of Doga for your dogs except that it will allow you bond with your dog. Assisted poses force you and your canine to work together as partners. This can help your dog learn to trust you and generally strengthen your relationship. This can also improve the potential for their behavior correction and training.
Two PHYSICAL HEALTH BENEFITS While the benefits of Doga aren’t backed by any real research, it’s still a form of exercise for you and your dog. If your dog is overweight or out of shape, doga could be a good way to get their body moving. It can aid in muscle building and fat burning. Any type of physical activity helps with blood circulation, and dog yoga isn’t an exception.
Three RELAXATION The best shared benefit of Doga is that it can help your and the dog deal with stress and anxiety and mental stability. Breathing exercises can do wonders for hyperactive dogs because it can calm them down and mellow them out. The exercise component can release some of your dog’s energy while stretching and massage components will mentally make them calmer.
Four ENTERTAINMENT Yoga can be a fun activity in itself, but adding a dog to the mix just makes it better! For most dog lovers, adding your dog to the mix makes everything more enjoyable. And, your dog will certainly have some fun. There are other dogs involved in the class and will most likely enjoy the stretching and socializing.
Five SOCIALIZATION Dogs tend to be social creatures. Being surrounded by other dogs and people in a controlled and soothing environment can be a great way to get them to open up to strangers and better deal with social situations. Doga can help develop a dog’s social skills which make public outings like walks easier to handle. It’s also a great way for you to meet other dog owning humans and socialize, which is perfect if you’re someone who doesn’t like crowded areas or loud dog parks.
Check out Karmably in Yeronga and Moorooka for Doga and Kitten Yoga (even Baby Goat Yoga!) sessions with Bernice.
Find out more at karmably.com.au
