Puppy Yoga: Bringing Joy and Mindfulness to Los Angeles

In Los Angeles, Laughing Frog Yoga studio offers a unique yoga experience that combines gentle stretching with playful puppies, many of which are available for adoption. The class provides mental health benefits, including joy and socialization, and has helped numerous puppies find forever homes since its inception in 2019.

In Los Angeles, yogis seeking a blend of mindfulness and puppy love can attend a unique yoga class featuring gentle stretching in the company of nine playful puppies, many of whom are seeking permanent homes.

During sessions at Laughing Frog Yoga, puppies assist practitioners by interacting with them in various poses like 'cat-cow' and 'downward dog.' Since 2019, this puppy yoga class has been a staple in Southern California, offering mental health benefits like happiness and socialization.

According to Julie Mondin, a dog wrangler and foster pup mom, puppies generate joy and mental stability by increasing oxytocin and dopamine levels. 'Puppy yoga is fun and wholesome,' she said. The class has facilitated around 58 adoptions to date, and Laughing Frog Yoga also offers goat and kitten yoga, though puppies remain a favorite. Instructor Kaia Placa emphasizes the importance of fun and joy in her classes, noting that they help reduce emotional fatigue by welcoming a sense of play and lightness.

Regular attendees like Aubrey Ackerman find it impossible to leave the class feeling sad or anxious, highlighting the unique benefits of this playful approach to yoga. Despite occasional puppy 'accidents,' the overall experience remains overwhelmingly positive, further enhancing the zen environment enjoyed by yogis.

(With inputs from agencies.)