This event gives downward dog a whole new meaning.
Wilkes-Barre/Scranton Roller Derby will host Kitten and Puppy Yoga on Saturday, Feb. 1, at the league’s practice space, 4949 Birney Ave., Moosic.
St. Cats & Dogs of Nay Aug Zoo and Northeast PA Pet Fund and Rescue will bring animals to this yoga class with a twist, where the furry friends will have free rein to walk around and explore as participants practice yoga.
Being around animals eases one’s mind, league president Brandy Ralston said, and the league is made up of animal lovers and pet owners. The members also love to work out, so incorporating animals with yoga was a perfect match.
“We combined all of our favorite things,” Ralston said. “I think a big part of yoga is having a great atmosphere and finding your Zen and calm. The animals really get you in the right mindset.”
Admission costs $20, and proceeds benefit Northeast PA Pet Fund and Rescue and one of the league’s teams, the Low Rolling Deuces. Advance registration is required, and spots are limited. The first session begins at 11 a.m., and the second session starts at 12:15 p.m. To reserve a spot, visit the event’s Facebook page.
Lizz Cannon Smith from Soulshine Inner Wellness will lead the hour-long session, which is open to all skill levels. The 18-and-older-event also is BYOB, and participants should bring their own yoga mats. Ralston noted it is an adoption event as well, so if someone sees an animal he or she would like to take home, that person can fill out the necessary paperwork that day.
“You might come for yoga and find your best friend,” Ralston said. “We’re very excited.”
The league holds several fundraisers throughout the year, including its annual Halloween Fest Oddities and Alternative Flea Market, trivia nights (an “Office”-themed night takes place in March), speed dating and a Bob Ross-themed paint-and-sip.
Since the team is self-funded, the members brainstorm to come up with events to raise money. For instance, they’re looking to offset travel costs for a match in Florida this summer. Anything helps the team, but Ralston said they also want to offer something fun for the community.
“We’re constantly trying to come up with offbeat, out-of-the-box fundraisers,” she said. “It’s good for us, but we want to give the public unique and different things to do.”
If you go
What: Kitten and Puppy Yoga
When: Saturday, Feb. 1; 11 a.m. and 12:15 p.m.
Where: 4949 Birney Ave., Moosic.
Details: Admission costs $20, and proceeds benefit Northeast PA Pet Fund and Rescue and Wilkes-Barre/Scranton Roller Derby’s B-Team, the Low Rolling Deuces. Advance registration is required; spots are limited. To reserve a spot, visit the event’s Facebook page.
Gia Mazur is an award-winning staff writer and beauty obsessive who joined The Times-Tribune’s Lifestyles department in 2015. She’s a product enthusiast who can’t live without an eyelash curler. A proud Virgo, Charlotte Tilbury Matte Revolution Lipstick in Pillow Talk is her go-to. Contact: gmazur@timesshamrock.com; 570-348-9127; @gmazurTT
