Camden’s only dog yoga instructor seeks new studio in Hampstead
Instructor Mahny Jahanguiri (centre) during a panting exercise at her 'Doga' dog yoga classes. Picture: Polly Hancock - Credit: Polly Hancock
Camden’s one and only dog yoga instructor is looking to bring her unique classes to Hampstead after being priced out of the studio where she has taught for a year.
Swiss-born Mahny Djahanguiri, 40, is a “Doga” instructor running classes for dog owners and their pets to perform together, allowing them to bond through shared yoga poses and mimicking breathing exercises.
She has appeared on TV programmes including Sunday Brunch on Channel 4 and BBC News programme Stop/Start last month demonstrating the classes.
But she has now been priced out of her studio in The Pirate Castle in Oval Road, Camden Town, and has been forced to take her niche practice elsewhere – with Hampstead top of the list.
“Hampstead types are perfect for my classes,” said Ms Djahanguiri, who lives in Wilesdon Green.
“You see all these dogs running amok around Hampstead Heath and I just know they and their owners would benefit from spending some quality time with their pets to really bond with them.
“Doga is perfect for that and it’s great at helping instil discipline if you’re having trouble getting your dog to listen to you.”
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Hampstead residents may have to wait a short while longer, however.
The question of hygiene is always prescient and finding a site that will welcome dogs with open arms could take longer than the instructor hoped – especially as she has started looking for “piddle-friendly yoga mats”.
The dogs are not forced to take part in classes but are free to move around and join their owners for special “canine poses”.
“It’s a fantastic way to spend some quality time with your dog and to connect with them at a deeper level,” said Ms Djahanguiri.
“Some of them will get excited to begin with and play with the other dogs, but once their owners get into a state of relaxation they feed off the energy and come and take part in some stretches.
“It’s very calming and therapeutic benefitting both pet as well as owner.”
For more information visit www.dogamahny.co.uk.
