DOGA
BYOD (bring your own dog) to the yoga studio
April 22, 2009
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Barbara Turnbull
LIVING REPORTER
"Down, dog," is taking on new meaning at yoga studios across the U.S.
Yoga classes for owners and their dogs – yes, classes with their dogs – are spreading like fleas in some American cities.
The phenomenon does not appear to have reached Canada yet. It originated not in California, land of fruit and nuts, but actually in Manhattan seven years ago.
Now doga classes have reached the West Coast and several cities between.
It's touted as a way to bond with your pet and together make your bodies more limber and minds more clear.
Programmers at the PawsWay pet discovery centre at Harbourfront are looking for doga instructor for a planned doggy spa weekend in July, says Mike Macbeth. Anyone interested should contact pawsway.ca.
But for the time being you'll have to try it elsewhere, if you're interested.
"I don't know of anybody who has done it here," says Dorothy Guerra, president of the Ontario Yoga Association.
The Star found no positive responses in looking for doga classes at Toronto yoga studios, but did get laughs.
Pets are not expected to perfect all the classic yoga positions, but the attempt is the point. Most classes involve massage and gently stretches of the dog's limbs.
In chaturanga, dogs sit with their front paws in the air while their human partners provide support.
In an "upward-paw pose," or sun salutation, owners lift dogs onto their hind legs.
In a resting pose, the person reclines, with legs slightly bent over the dog's torso, bolster-style, to relieve pressure on the spine.
Doga is not universally embraced. It's been criticized as another example of multitasking and some believe it turns the revered, 2,500-year-old practice into a fad.
Certification isn't necessary, though seminars exist. One is taught by Seattle's Brenda Bryan, who wrote Barking Buddha: Simple Soul Stretches for Yogi and Dogi, available through Amazon.
Maybe it's not so far-fetched. Downward-Facing Dog is the best-known yoga position, but other poses are named for cats, lions, eagles, dolphins, camels and fish.
Yoga student Shelley Snow says dogs don't need doga. "Animals stretch in the most natural way to them, it's instinctual," she says. "Animals teach us how to stretch."
Snow, who takes classes and works the phones at Bliss Yoga Studio, says she can't imagine a person or animal getting a good workout together, but it's probably no worse than what new mothers get from Yoga and Baby sessions. "We all love to be touched and caressed. Most animals love that."
But, just as many dogs are the reason people go for walks, doga may be the impetus for owners to take part. All exercise is a good thing, it's said. As for Fido, his digestion and heart function may improve. And his patience.
Dogs may benefit from the stretching, but doga still won't be offered at Downward Dog Yoga Centre on Queen W. despite the name, says general manager Joy Dorsey. "I feel like that's indulgent," she says, laughing at the question.
That's okay. Park weather is just starting.
With files from The Independent and The New York Times
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