Yoga with animals is becoming a popular trend, as seen in a recent class in central Massachusetts where three piglets named Wilbur, Charlotte, and Bluey joined in on the fun. The piglets roamed around the yoginis practicing various poses while also digging up the backyard with their snouts. Two rabbits and a goat named Munchie also added to the atmosphere, making the experience enjoyable for participants who traveled from far to attend the class. Retired dentist Stacey Delbridge and her daughter found the piglet yoga session to be cute, funny, and a refreshing break from the usual yoga routine.
The owner of Beyond Yoga & Wellness in Massachusetts, Ashley Bousquet, teaches piglet yoga classes that are in high demand, with registrations often selling out online within hours. Bousquet encourages participants to interact with the piglets during the class, allowing them to cuddle, run around, and cause mischief. Amy Finkel, who attended the class with her daughters, found joy in seeing her children happy and hugging the animals. She mentioned that the class seemed to go by quickly, indicating a high level of enjoyment among participants. Practicing yoga with animals can have unexpected benefits, including increasing mindfulness and focus for participants.
According to Rebecca Purchase of the Massachusetts Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals-Angell, practicing yoga with shelter animals can also help promote adoptions. Purchase explains that the stress level for animals during yoga sessions varies, with some animals thriving in social environments while others may not find it suitable. Finkel, a fan of animal yoga, shared that the experience helped her stay present and focused, which can be challenging in today’s fast-paced world. Delbridge expressed her love for the piglets and stated that she would have preferred to spend the entire session just being with the animals, rather than practicing yoga.
Overall, the piglet yoga class in Spencer, Massachusetts, provided a unique and enjoyable experience for participants looking to combine physical and mental wellness exercises with animal interaction. The presence of the piglets, rabbits, and the goat added an element of fun and unpredictability to the yoga session, creating a memorable and joyful atmosphere. The growing trend of yoga with animals signifies a shift towards more unconventional and engaging fitness practices that cater to a variety of interests and preferences. As more people discover the benefits of practicing yoga alongside animals, it is likely that such classes will continue to gain popularity and provide a source of enjoyment and relaxation for participants of all ages.
