The Art of Cat Yoga: How to Involve Your Cat in Your Workouts

Posted by By Mukesh Pathak 10 Min Read
The Art of Cat Yoga: How to Involve Your Cat in Your Workouts

Introduction

Yoga is well-known for its numerous physical and mental benefits, but did you know that your cat can also join in on the fun? While dogs have had their moment with “Doga,” it’s time to shine the spotlight on “Cat Yoga.” Cats, known for their flexibility, calm demeanor, and curiosity, can make perfect companions for your yoga sessions. Incorporating your cat into your workouts can enhance the experience, create a stronger bond, and help both you and your feline friend find peace and relaxation.

In this guide, we will explore the art of cat yoga and provide tips, techniques, and poses to make your sessions enjoyable and cat-friendly. Let’s stretch, breathe, and purr our way through this unique workout experience.

Why Practice Cat Yoga?

Before diving into poses and techniques, it’s important to understand why involving your cat in yoga can be beneficial for both of you.

  1. Strengthens Your Bond: Spending quality time with your cat during yoga fosters a stronger connection. Cats thrive on attention, and sharing your peaceful yoga space can bring you closer together.
  2. Reduces Stress for You and Your Cat: Yoga itself is calming, but when combined with the soothing presence of your pet, it can elevate the relaxation. Cats often mirror your energy, so your calm state can help them relax too.
  3. Encourages Mindfulness: Cats live in the moment, naturally practicing mindfulness. Observing their peaceful state can inspire you to be present and more mindful during your practice.
  4. Promotes Physical Activity for Both: While you’re stretching, your cat may also get some exercise by following your movements or exploring the yoga space. This provides subtle stimulation for your feline friend.

Preparing for Cat Yoga

To set the stage for a harmonious yoga session with your cat, follow these preparation steps:

1. Create a Cat-Friendly Environment

  • Choose a Quiet Space: Cats can be easily startled by loud noises. Select a calm, quiet environment where your cat feels safe.
  • Clear the Area: Remove any distractions or objects that could interfere with your practice or cause your cat to feel stressed.
  • Use a Comfortable Mat: Cats love soft surfaces. Your yoga mat will not only be a comfortable space for you but also an inviting spot for your cat to join.

2. Invite Your Cat’s Curiosity

  • Incorporate Toys: Cats are naturally curious. Placing a toy or two near your yoga mat can encourage your cat to explore and stay engaged during the session.
  • Use Treats: Healthy treats can be a great way to invite your cat into your space. Offer small treats at the beginning of the session to signal it’s a positive environment.
  • Keep Water Nearby: Cats may get thirsty during a long session, so ensure there’s a bowl of water nearby for them.

3. Timing Is Key

  • Choose a Calm Time: It’s best to practice yoga during a time when your cat is naturally more relaxed, such as after mealtime or during their usual nap times. This reduces the chance of your cat becoming overly playful or disruptive.

Cat Yoga Poses and Techniques

Now that you’ve prepared the space, it’s time to explore poses that both you and your cat can enjoy together. Below are some cat-friendly yoga poses, with tips on how to involve your feline friend.

1. Cat-Cow Pose (Marjaryasana-Bitilasana)

  • How to Do It: Start on your hands and knees in a tabletop position. Inhale and arch your back downward for Cow Pose, then exhale and round your back upward for Cat Pose.
  • Involving Your Cat: As you move through the Cat-Cow flow, your cat may enjoy rubbing against you or even walking beneath you. Let them explore your movements, and take breaks to give them gentle pets between transitions.

2. Downward-Facing Dog (Adho Mukha Svanasana)

  • How to Do It: Begin in a tabletop position, then lift your hips upward, creating an inverted V-shape with your body.
  • Involving Your Cat: Cats often love to curl up underneath you in this pose. Let them use the space under your body as a cozy spot while you stretch, and pause to pet them if they do.

3. Savasana (Corpse Pose)

  • How to Do It: Lie flat on your back with your arms and legs relaxed, palms facing upward. Close your eyes and focus on your breath.
  • Involving Your Cat: Cats love Savasana! As you lie still, your cat may come and cuddle on your chest or near your legs. Their presence will amplify the sense of relaxation. This is an excellent pose for bonding.

4. Seated Forward Fold (Paschimottanasana)

  • How to Do It: Sit with your legs stretched in front of you and gently fold forward, reaching toward your toes.
  • Involving Your Cat: Cats may nuzzle your hands or stretch out alongside you during this pose. Feel free to reach out and give your cat a scratch while holding the pose, allowing you both to stretch together.

5. Child’s Pose (Balasana)

  • How to Do It: Kneel on the mat, sit back on your heels, and fold forward, resting your forehead on the mat with your arms extended or alongside your body.
  • Involving Your Cat: Cats love the quietness of Child’s Pose. They may sit beside you or on your back. Focus on your breath, and let your cat enjoy the stillness with you.

6. Bridge Pose (Setu Bandhasana)

  • How to Do It: Lie on your back with your knees bent and feet flat on the ground. Lift your hips upward, creating a bridge.
  • Involving Your Cat: Cats may walk under your body or sit by your feet during this pose. Hold the pose for a few breaths, and gently pet your cat when they approach.

Tips for Encouraging Your Cat to Participate

While cats may not always follow instructions like dogs, there are ways to encourage their involvement during yoga:

  1. Stay Calm and Patient: Cats are sensitive to their surroundings. If you’re calm and focused, they’ll likely feel more comfortable joining you.
  2. Incorporate Gentle Touches: Lightly petting your cat or giving them a little scratch when they approach can make them feel more relaxed and included.
  3. Use Positive Reinforcement: When your cat participates by being near you, offer them a treat or verbal praise to show them that their presence is welcome.
  4. Let Them Be Curious: Don’t force your cat to participate. Cats have their own rhythms and might choose to observe instead of interact. Let them engage on their terms.
  5. Create a Routine: Cats love routines. If you practice yoga at the same time every day, your cat may begin to anticipate the session and naturally join in.

The Benefits of Cat Yoga

Practicing cat yoga offers numerous benefits for both you and your cat:

  1. Improved Bond: Spending focused time with your cat helps to strengthen the bond between you two. The shared peaceful energy will enhance your relationship.
  2. Relaxation and Stress Relief: The calming nature of yoga, paired with the soothing presence of your cat, makes for an incredibly relaxing experience. Cats are known to reduce stress levels, and their purring has even been linked to healing properties.
  3. Physical Health: Yoga helps improve your flexibility, strength, and balance. For your cat, the movement and exploration of the space around you can provide subtle physical stimulation.
  4. Mental Health: Yoga is known to promote mindfulness and reduce anxiety. Sharing this practice with your cat can also improve your mood and reduce feelings of loneliness.

Conclusion

Cat yoga is a wonderful way to connect with your furry friend while focusing on your physical and mental well-being. Cats, with their natural grace and calm energy, make ideal yoga companions, whether they’re actively participating or simply lounging nearby. By creating a peaceful, inviting space and incorporating your cat into poses, you’ll find that cat yoga can become a unique and rewarding part of your daily routine.