In New York City, a new kind of yoga class is turning heads—and tongues—on four Puppy Sphere studios across the borough. The classes combine the calming practice of yoga with the playful energy of puppies, creating a fun, stress‑relief experience that’s attracting both seasoned yogis and first‑timers.
The idea comes from co‑founders Francesca Albo and Lea Burbidge‑Izquierdo, who launched the first Puppy Sphere in 2021. Both women say that their own mental‑health journeys inspired the concept. After losing a sister to suicide, Burbidge‑Izquierdo tried yoga to ground herself.
She felt calmer after each session, and soon realized that the addition of puppies could amplify that effect. Albo’s own story began with Depression and a “toxic corporate job.” Her puppy Hershey helped lift her mood and saved her from a dark period.
Research backs up what the founders feel. Yoga improves strength, flexibility, balance, and reduces stress and anxiety. Studies also show that interacting with dogs releases serotonin, dopamine, and oxytocin—natural feel‑good hormones that lift mood and lower anxiety. Human‑animal bonds even lower blood pressure, cholesterol, and triglyceride levels, lowering cardiovascular risk.
Each Puppy Sphere class starts with a 45‑minute flow led by a certified instructor. A litter of well‑behaved puppies roams the studio, and participants can touch, pet, or play with them as they flow through positions. After class, everyone enjoys an extra 30 minutes of free time with the pups while sipping green juice, sparkling water or apple cider.
The format keeps people smiling, laughing, and fully present—what the co‑founders call “presence, play and human‑animal connection.” The buzz has spread far beyond NYC. Puppy Sphere now has over 20 locations across the US and Canada.
The classes sell out regularly, and stars such as Sabrina Carpenter, Julia Louis‑Dreyfus, and Trevor Noah have been seen tying their mats to the puppies. Their appearances help popularise the trend and show that whether you can touch your toes or not, you can still enjoy a guest‑friendly, puppy‑infused yoga session.
For dog lovers and anyone looking for a quick mental‑health boost, Puppy Sphere blends the proven benefits of yoga with the natural happiness that comes from a dog’s wagging tail and slobbery kisses. If you’re in NYC—or elsewhere—give it a try. A few minutes of downward dog among puppies might just be the best part of your day.
Source: New York Post
Stay informed on all the latest news, real-time breaking news updates, and follow all the important headlines in world News on Latest NewsX. Follow us on social media Facebook, Twitter(X), Gettr and subscribe our Youtube Channel.
