Who let the dogs out? Well, it looks like Delhi’s Paws and Poses is guilty of this crime! Kickstarted by Riya Bedi and Gunveet Singh Dang, Paws and Poses is a notion where yoga meets puppy love, hence giving rise to the concept of pet yoga. Here we have the founders telling us where it all began and where do they see it going.
The practice of Yoga has been luring all of us for ages, and the ones who haven’t fallen prey to its benefits already should take a scroll on ‘Paws and Poses’s Instagram handle. This brainchild of Gunveet Singh Dang and Riya Bedi has been gaining traction amongst netizens lately, courtesy of the inception of puppy yoga in Delhi’s bustling culture. It seems like immunity-boosting benefits weren’t enough to get humans to roll out those mats, so Gunveet and Riya thought of that one bait that’ll keep us hooked to our Yoga mats no matter what- puppies. With over 90 sessions, Paws and Poses has managed to garner a loyal fanbase in not just Delhi, but other states too. Not just that, apart from these puppies helping you hit the right pose, you also get to adopt these furry babies. Riya and Gunveet’s notion wasn’t just to make Yoga fun, but also to provide a home for these tiny creatures, and it’s safe to say they met their aim. So, let’s say if you come across a reel witnessing people trying to strike a pose with the cutest little pups, that’s your cue to experience pet yoga! Further giving an insight Gunveet Singh Dang, one-half of Paws and Poses spills the tea on how they embarked on this journey.
In conversation with the founder of wellness space, Paws and Poses in Delhi
What made you foray into the wellness space, and how did you come about with this unique and joyful concept?
The inception of Paws and Poses was rooted in a heartwarming experience that my partner, Riya, had during her time in Vancouver. With her three beloved pet dogs back home, the separation took a toll on her emotional well-being. Attending a puppy yoga session in Vancouver, she discovered an extraordinary solace that emanated from the combination of yoga and the companionship of adorable puppies. She shared her experience with me, igniting the spark for Paws and Poses in New Delhi. Our journey began with meticulous research, extensive brainstorming, and relentless dedication. On the 3rd of June, we orchestrated our maiden puppy yoga session, aiming to create a space where physical and emotional wellness seamlessly converges. The response surpassed our expectations; in under 9 months, we’ve orchestrated over 90 successful sessions. Others have also embraced this trend, as similar sessions have started cropping up. However, we remain committed to preserving the intimate and personal touch that makes Paws and Poses unique.
Paws and Poses
Do you think these loveable creatures’ presence adds to wellness practices? If yes then how?
The idea of merging puppies with yoga is simply a recipe for joy. Puppies possess an innate ability to radiate positivity and invoke feelings of happiness and comfort. This, combined with the stress-relieving benefits of yoga, creates a harmonious and unique experience for participants. Responses to our sessions have been overwhelmingly positive. Participants find solace and a sense of connection as they practice yoga amidst the playful energy of puppies. The puppies’ presence adds an element of lightness and spontaneity to the practice, making it not only beneficial for physical health but also for mental well-being. The benefits extend to both humans and puppies. The interaction with puppies for humans acts as a natural stress reliever and mood enhancer. Engaging with these adorable creatures releases endorphins, promoting happiness and relaxation. For puppies, the sessions can provide socialization and exposure to different environments, contributing to their overall development.
We’ve also seen you all spread awareness about the adoption of these fur buddies, so tell us a little about the process.
We are proud to play a role in supporting animal welfare organizations as well. A fixed portion of all our ticket sales is pledged to the Shvan Foundation, an organization that tirelessly cares for 400 abandoned and rescued dogs. In addition, our efforts have resulted in finding forever homes for 20 indie puppies, ensuring they have a loving and secure future. While the advantages are clear, it’s important to maintain a balanced and controlled environment. Puppies need to be handled gently, to ensure their safety and comfort. In essence, puppy yoga brings smiles, fosters well-being, supports animal welfare, and forms an exceptional bond between humans and their furry companions. This unique experience offers a holistic benefit that extends to both the participants and the wonderful animals we aim to help and protect.
Paws and Poses
What made you choose yoga? Was it always your first choice or is it something that just occurred to the two of you?
The decision to incorporate yoga into Paws and Poses stemmed from a combination of personal experiences and strategic planning. While it wasn’t our initial idea, the concept of yoga with puppies resonated deeply with both of us. We observed the growing popularity of yoga as a holistic wellness practice and recognized its potential to enhance the unique experience we wanted to create. Additionally, we considered the therapeutic benefits of yoga, such as stress relief and mindfulness, which complemented our goal of providing a relaxing and enjoyable time for participants. Thus, choosing yoga for Paws and Poses was a thoughtful decision that evolved from a blend of personal insights and strategic alignment with our vision.
What was your vision behind paws and poses when you started and how has it been so far?
When we started Paws and Poses, our vision was to create a one-of-a-kind experience that combined the physical and mental benefits of yoga with the joy and companionship of puppies. We wanted to provide a space where people could unwind, connect with adorable dogs, and improve their overall well-being. The idea was to offer something unique in the wellness and recreational space, tapping into the therapeutic effects of animal companionship and the mindfulness practices of yoga. So far, the journey has been incredibly rewarding. We’ve seen an overwhelming response from participants who appreciate the harmonious blend of yoga and puppies. Our sessions have been consistently sold out, with participants leaving with smiles on their faces and a sense of relaxation. The positive feedback and growing demand have motivated us to continue expanding and refining our offerings, with the goal of reaching more people and making a lasting impact on their lives through Paws and Poses.
Paws and Poses
Since your duo has been working wonders so tell us what is the best part of being a duo and working with each other?
Thank you for acknowledging our work! Collaborating as a duo has been a fantastic journey. While it’s undoubtedly enjoyable, it also involves numerous discussions and debates as we strive to craft unforgettable experiences for our participants. What works for us is a strategic division of responsibilities based on our strengths, allowing us to trust each other’s expertise and avoid unnecessary interference in each other’s work. My background in the sports industry complements Riya’s unwavering love for dogs, and our shared commitment to giving back to society reinforces our compatibility and efficiency. This synergy has been pivotal in driving the success of Paws and Poses, enabling us to navigate challenges and celebrate triumphs together.
Lastly, tell us where do you see Paws and Poses in the next five years, what is the goal?
In the next five years, we envision Paws and Poses growing into a widely recognized and cherished endeavor. While we’re optimistic about our potential, we’re also grounded and focused on taking thoughtful steps forward. Our goal isn’t just about expansion; it’s about nurturing authentic connections and creating memorable experiences for our participants. We aspire to collaborate with various animal welfare organizations, working together to improve conditions for dogs across India. This journey is about humility, partnership, and a shared commitment to making a positive impact, one session at a time. Our vision includes not only geographical expansion but also deepening our impact and fostering meaningful relationships within our community. Gunveet
Hero and Featured Image: Courtesy Paws and Poses.