Cats create unique yoga experience

SANDUSKY — Typical yoga props generally include bolsters, blocks and mats. But cats? As a matter of fact, for this recent special session, yes. Felines helped fill up a room already packed with about 20 participants in a special yoga class hosted by a local nonprofit. On July 17, the Humane Society of Erie County offered a community-based yoga class at Venue 634 in Sandusky. A handful of kittens freely roamed around during instruction, often interrupting stretches and poses but never disturbing attendees. Many would break from their flows to pick them up, snuggle and comfort them. The class doubled as a fundraiser event. Completely funded by events like this, along with donations and grants, the humane society wanted to raise awareness about its services, mission and adoption process. Fees from this class benefited the nonprofit. The cats running around, meanwhile, could also be adopted afterward — in fact, two went home with yoga class participants. Certified yoga instructor Emily Kuzmick, of Sandusky, led the session, often scooping up cats scurrying toward her for a quick hug. "Anyone who knows me knows I am a crazy cat lady and have a passion for fostering and adopting out cats, keeping them off the streets to protect local wildlife, control disease and prevent heartbreaking roadkill," Kuzmick said. "So the opportunity to combine my passions for teaching yoga and supporting rescues was so special." Melissa Gundlach, the humane society's executive director, coordinates kitten yoga classes, which occur once every few months or so. She explained its importance and impact: • What: "Kitten yoga is an hour-long yoga class taught by an instructor while adoptable kittens/cats are exploring the room around you, playing and cuddling." • Who: "It is suitable for all exercise experience levels. Emily offered an hour of yoga instruction while participants followed her and laughed at the antics of the kittens. Cat toys were sprinkled around the room, and participants could interact with the kittens however they chose during the session." • Why: "I enjoy this fundraiser because it's small and intimate. It connects people with our purpose on a very personal level. We hope people got to relax and unplug for an hour, feel healthy and good in their bodies, as well as enjoy playing with kittens." • When: "Future classes will be posted on the events tab on our website, humanesocietyoferiecounty.org, and on Facebook."