This Type Of Yoga Involves A Venomous Reptile—Would You Do It?

There's no doubt that yoga has evolved over time. While styles like power yoga, hot yoga, and aerial yoga are already popular, a new trend has now gone viral. This new form encourages people to relax while snakes slither across their backs. Intrestingly, one yoga studio, LXRYOGA, located in California, US, has already gained a lot of popularity with its 'Snake Yoga' classes.

This class particularly targets those who suffer from ophidiophobia, a fear of snakes. According to the proprietors of the place, the purpose of this form of yoga is to help people overcome the fear of snakes through breath. "Some might say our offering is a gimmick like other animal-incorporated yoga, but we truly believe in what we offer, Tess Cao, co-owner of the studio, told People.

Owners of LXRYOGA, Tess and Huy, have already added a unique twist to these classes by making their pet ball pythons a part of the sessions. According to NY Post, these 45-minute classes, priced at US$160, offer a serene experience where participants practice gentle yoga alongside six snakes, each named after crystals. Before the session, participants draw a crystal to determine which snake will be their partner for the class.

Tess explains that the snakes, known for their social and friendly nature, are carefully introduced to ensure they feel comfortable and relaxed. To avoid any potential stress for the animals, an orientation is held before each class, teaching participants how to handle the snakes and, equally important, what not to do. The owners have repeatedly asserted that the sankes are amicable and there has not been a single case where they have bitten someone.

Not only do the participants handle the snakes, but they allow the slithering creatures to roam their bodies while they’re still. "Savasana — where students lie down on their backs with eyes closed, while snakes are placed on their bodies — feels like a ‘Fear Factor’ episode, but most say it’s grounding and relaxing, owners said. They underscore that while some may take their class for fun, many are curious about snakes. Moreover, there are many who want to overcome their fear of snakes.

How Does Snake Yoga Benefit You

• Practicing snake or any form of yoga helps increase flexibility, reducing stiffness and enhancing range of motion in the muscles and joints.
• Yoga promotes relaxation and mindfulness, reducing stress, anxiety, and depression while improving overall mental well-being.
• Many yoga poses strengthen muscles and improve balance, which can help with posture and prevent falls, especially as you age.
• Focused breathing techniques in yoga help improve lung capacity, regulate breath, and enhance overall respiratory function.
• Moreover, yoga can lower blood pressure, improve circulation, and reduce the risk of heart disease by promoting relaxation and reducing stress.