meowmaste - yoga online class with cats

Stretching Support for a Cause: Phinney’s to Host Livestream Cat Yoga Class March 28
 
(Groton, MA, March 19, 2021) – Phinney’s (aka Phinney’s Friends), a nonprofit serving pet parents in Massachusetts experiencing hardships, will host MeowMaste: Do Yoga with Cats! March 28 from 7 to 8 p.m. EDT via Google Meet.
 
According to the National Institute for Health (NIH) interacting with animals can decrease cortisol, a stress-producing hormone, and lower blood pressure. Studies have also found that spending time with animals can reduce loneliness, increase feelings of social support, and boost a person’s mood.
 
“During these tough COVID times, we decided that hosting a virtual yoga session where participants can interact online with a group of well-poised felines would be a great way to give cat enthusiasts, seasoned yogis, and those with a general curiosity about the featured cats or yoga generally a fulfilling and healthful experience while supporting Phinney’s,” said Daniela Caride, Phinney’s president.
 
“Cats are generally so limber, and there’s a lot we humans can learn from their flexibility,” Caride added. According to Cornell’s Center for Materials Research, a cat’s limber spine is the reason behind the cat’s graceful and acrobatic escapades. The ability to easily move, contort, and bend also contributes to a cat’s momentum when running. Johns Hopkins Medicine reports that yoga can help improve strength, balance, and flexibility, and Mayo Clinic research shows that yoga can help with anxiety, chronic illness, and depression.
 
“We’re excited to bring together cat lovers, and anyone who may be curious about cats, at this virtual, fun-filled class focused on health and well-being,” Caride said. “This is an opportunity to learn some yoga poses that can help with balance, coordination, focus, and movement—all while enjoying their feline classmates during this one-of-a-kind experience that supports Phinney’s mission.”
 
A $10 donation to Phinney’s secures a spot in the class, which has limited space and is designed for all ages and experience levels. Information on how to register can be found at phinneys.org/meowmaste.
 
ABOUT PHINNEY’S
Phinney’s (aka Phinney’s Friends) is an all-volunteer registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit helping people in Massachusetts keep their pets by providing financial support and pet-caregiving assistance. In addition to the Godparents Program, Phinney’s provides much-needed assistance to those experiencing ongoing or temporary financial hardships and mental and physical impairments through its EverCare, Pet Boost, and Emergency programs. Those in need of Phinney’s services may call or fax their request for assistance to 617.979.8705 or complete the form at www.phinneys.org/contact-us.html.