Charlotte Studios Blend Yoga With Puppies
Local instructors report that combining movement with dog cuddles lowers stress and helps socialize young animals.
By Ariana Flores ·
Yoga studios in Charlotte, North Carolina, are incorporating puppies into standard classes, merging physical stretching with animal interaction. The format pairs calm movement with periods of play and rest, allowing participants to hold dogs during poses. Jessica Seisay, a local yoga instructor, stated that the concept bridges two popular activities: yoga and puppies.
Participants report immediate calming effects during the sessions. Taylor Manley, a first-time attendee, said a puppy sat in her lap for the duration of the class. She noted that the dog made her want to sleep. “I was trying to relax with him, and he was gonna make me go to sleep with him,” Manley said. The experience left her feeling calm after the workout.
Research supports the use of animal contact in stress reduction. Studies indicate that interacting with animals lowers cortisol levels while raising serotonin and dopamine. These chemicals are linked to improved mood and reduced anxiety. Taylor Terry, the breeder who supplies the puppies for the classes, observes these effects directly. She said many attendees use the sessions to decompress from anxiety and depression. “Every time you see puppies, you just get happy,” Terry said.
The classes serve a dual purpose for the dogs as well. Terry said the sessions help socialize the puppies, who often appear unsure of the people in the room at the start. She observed that after about 10 minutes, the animals become energetic and run around the studio. By the end of the class, the puppies are socializing and having a good time. Terry also said some puppies meet their future families during these group sessions.
Local wellness experts endorse the hybrid model. Katherine Ambrose, an aging well coach, called the format brilliant. She argued that combining yoga and puppies provides the best of both worlds for participants. Gerontologist Sam Cradduck expressed a preference for the dogs over the stretching. “Give me a yoga mat and a bunch of puppies and I don’t care if I stretch. I just want the puppies,” Cradduck said.
