June 21, 2023 Rachel Young

International Yoga Day inspired by dogs!

International Yoga Day, or International ‘Doga’ Day takes place on 21^st June every year. This is because it is the Summer Solstice, which means it’s the day that has the most sun in a year.

What is 'Doga'?

As you might know, Yoga is an ancient practice that originally began 5,000 years ago in India and was developed to interconnect the mind, body, and soul, so one can step towards enlightenment. This is why it is such a popular form of exercise, as yoga is a relaxation method that is great for mental health and wellbeing, as well as for physical health.

So what is ‘Doga'? Doga is simply when you practice yoga accompanied by your dog. There are two types of Doga. The first type is where you practice yoga with your furry pal by your side, but they do not join in with any of the moves. The second style of Doga is where your dog is part of the yoga routine with you, it includes your pooch being guided through various little stretches so they can feel part of the harmony. There is no better time to feel part of the harmony than during International Yoga Day!

What are the benefits of dog yoga during International Yoga Day?

First of all, taking your dog to a yoga practice during a day like International Yoga Day provides a great social opportunity with other pet parents. Who doesn't love to talk about their furry friend?

Doga also benefits your pooch too, of course. It allows them to be around other people and their pets to build on their socialisation skills. This is especially important during the puppy stage as socialisation helps them to develop into healthy, well-balanced dogs.

If you choose to take part in the more hands-on type of Doga this International Yoga Day, (where your furry pal joins in with you), it will help your dog become more tolerant when it comes to being handled by other people such as the vet or groomer.

Antoni Shkraba via Pexels

Our International Yoga Day Dog Poses!

We have all noticed those long pleasurable stretches our fur babies do throughout the day. We can learn a lot from them on how to feel present, stretching our spines, and taking deep breaths. To celebrate International Yoga Day, we have come up with some fun dog yoga poses you can try out today!

Puppy Pose (Anahatasana): Knees bent to the floor with your bottom resting on your feet, lay with straight stretched arms forward and forehead to the floor.
Downward-Facing Dog (Adho Mukha Svanasana): Feet and hands on the floor, bottom up in the air (in an upside down ‘V’ shape).
Upward-Facing Dog (Urdhva Mukha Svanasana): Front legs on the floor, hands on the floor, lifting your chest and chin up.
Fetal pose (Parsva Garbhasana): curling up and sleeping