Downward Dog Yoga: September 2008

Thursday, September 18, 2008

First Day of Class Info

LOCATION
The Canine Fitness Centre is located at 509 - 42nd Avenue SE, but you will enter the building from the back (ie. NOT the front doors that face 42nd Avenue).

TIMES
Class times: 5:30 to 6:30 OR 6:45 to 7:45
*Class will start promptly at the times listed. Doors open 15 minutes prior to your class start time*

IMPORTANT**
PLEASE LEAVE ALL DOGS IN VEHICLE FOR START OF FIRST CLASS. This will allow us, the humans, to get acquainted, get through administration and orientation.

The first class will follow something like this;
HUMANS ONLY (for first half)
You will be asked to sign waivers, registration forms and make payments.
An orientation will be conducted by first Jessica to provide you the "yoga" familiarities. Pat will introduce her role and speak more in the second half of class when dogs are out.

A human ONLY yoga class will begin. We will be going through basic postures.
Then....

The dogs arrive! You will be asked to bring in your dogs and spend some time walking around the room. During this time Pat and Jessica will be going through an "evaluation" of the mental states of each dog and what is needed to best support human and dog. Some dogs will be asked to go back in vehicle with "Om-work" for next class, some will be in crates, some tied to a structure, and some who are in the "zen" mind will be free to lay beside their human on their own mat.

Once we have organized this Pat will provide all of us instructions on dog psychology and techniques on how to relax our dogs by touch, voice, and our own "energy". We will all have Om-work to practice every week with our dog and thus each class we will see a progression of the stages of where the dog is kept during the yoga practice.

Looking forward to meeting all of you!

Pat and Jessica

Wednesday, September 10, 2008

Creating a Yoga Practice for You and Your Dog

What you will need for class and at home.

For you, the Human

* Eco-Friendly yoga mat
visit this site for ordering info http://www.halfmoon.bz/about/

* Any additional prop such as bolster, block or strap you know you will need. If you are unsure, wait until class and your teacher Jessica will discuss this with you.

For you, the Dog

* An appropriate sized crate with comfy blanket and either favorite toy or special treat.

* Collar and lead.

* Treats

For your Supplies we suggest the following store with multiple locations in the Calgary area
http://www.tailblazerspets.com/

During orientation Pat will discuss further needs and requirements to make your yoga journey a fruitful one by sharing personal and customized tips and techniques for you and your dog. This may require additional supplies.

Tuesday, September 9, 2008