As animal-themed yoga classes continue to evolve, Portland, Oregon, has taken an unexpected turn with the introduction of Snake Yoga at HISSS, a pet store dedicated to reptiles. This novel approach invites participants to engage in yoga while being accompanied by snakes, a sharp departure from the more traditional puppy or goat yoga classes.
Owner Dru Morales launched HISSS with the aim of providing comprehensive reptile care services, including beak trimming for turtles and tortoises, nail clippings, and even spa packages. A few months after opening, he conceived the idea of integrating yoga with snakes, clearing out space in the store to accommodate the classes and contacting yoga instructor Katy Vanek, who was willing to experiment despite her lack of experience with snakes.
Snake Yoga classes have become a hit, with around 80% of participants being snake enthusiasts and 20% attending as a form of exposure therapy, often encouraged by more adventurous friends or family members. The classes feature various pythons and even a baby boa constrictor named Mango, with snakes ranging from a foot to seven feet long. Reptile handlers carefully drape the snakes over participants’ shoulders or bellies, allowing them to explore the space and climb on the attendees as they practice their poses.
Integrating Reptiles into Yoga Practice
During the sessions, participants are reminded to remain mindful of the snakes around them. Yoga instructor Katy Vanek incorporates the reptiles into the flow of the class, including poses like the cobra pose, which aligns thematically with the class’s unique premise. Students are also encouraged to engage in turtle pose while connecting with the vibrational senses of the snakes.
For many attendees, being mindful of the snakes winding around them enhances their yoga experience, promoting presence and focus. Christina Chang, a participant, noted that the snakes help keep her grounded in the practice. As the class progresses, the snakes, being cold-blooded, tend to seek the warmth of the participants, adding an element of comfort. The snakes’ movements and their gentle pressure have been compared to the soothing effects of weighted blankets.
Safety Protocols and Participant Experience
Safety remains a top priority during Snake Yoga sessions. HISSS has implemented protocols to ensure both the well-being of the snakes and the participants. Each participant is given consent tokens to indicate their comfort level with the snakes during the class. This allows individuals to signal whether they want to engage with the reptiles or prefer to keep their distance. As the hour progresses, even the most hesitant participants often find themselves warming up to the snakes.
While the concept of a snake weaving across one’s body may evoke fear for some, many participants have reported surprisingly positive experiences. The snakes’ movements can provide a unique form of physical therapy, resembling gentle adjustments or massages, as they create a dynamic interaction with the yoga practice. Vanek noted that while kittens might be cute, they tend to be more chaotic compared to the calm and mindful nature of snakes.
Conclusion: A Unique Addition to Animal Yoga
Snake Yoga represents a new frontier in the realm of animal-assisted practices, blending mindfulness with the unexpected presence of reptiles. As HISSS continues to host these unique classes, they may inspire similar ventures in other cities, expanding the types of animals involved in wellness activities. For those interested in exploring their fears or simply trying something new, Snake Yoga provides an adventurous alternative to traditional yoga classes.
As the trend of animal yoga continues to grow, participants are encouraged to share their experiences and insights, contributing to a broader acceptance and understanding of diverse animal interactions in wellness practices. Have you tried an unconventional yoga class? Share your thoughts and experiences below!
