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Don’t force your cat to join in
Cats are naturally curious and rolling out your yoga mat may suffice to grab your cat’s attention. Let your cat investigate the mat as well as any equipment you use, and don’t force them to participate. Perhaps they prefer watching from a distance for now, only to join in next time.
Incorporating your cat into your poses
Allowing your cat to be part of your yoga practice can be a fun and rewarding way to bond with your feline companion. Here are some ways in which you can incorporate your cat into various yoga poses:
Seated poses
For seated poses, such as the cross-legged position, you can invite your cat to sit on your lap or next to you. Gently pet your cat or hold their paw as you breathe deeply and focus on your pose.
Downward-facing dog
In downward-facing dog, you can encourage your cat to walk underneath you or climb onto your back for added weight and resistance. This can help to stretch your back and shoulders while also providing a fun challenge for your cat. Treats can work miracles to motivate your kitty. Just make sure you trim your cat’s nails before you get started to prevent nasty scratches on your back.
Warrior poses
In warrior poses, such as warrior one or warrior two, you can use your cat as a prop by gently holding them in your arms or placing them on your thigh. This can help to deepen your stretch and create a fun challenge for your cat.
Balancing poses
In balancing poses, such as tree pose or dancer pose, you can use your cat for added support and stability. Hold your cat in your arms or gently place them on your shoulder as you focus on your balance and strength.
Resting poses
In resting poses, such as the child’s pose or corpse pose, you can invite your cat to snuggle up next to you for added comfort and relaxation. This can be a great way to wind down your yoga practice while also enjoying some quality time with your feline companion.
