Photo courtesy of Big Cat Habitat Gulf Coast Sanctuary

The energizing and exciting Yoga With Tigers event created such a buzz, it became a frequented monthly series of events on Big Cat Habitat's newly built, spacious porch surrounded by tiger enclosures. RYT-200 instructor Erika Cain taught the classes, which was designed as a mixture of gentle hatha, vinyasa and meditation-in-motion yoga styles. Ticket profits and supplementary donations went directly to supporting the facility’s operations and taking care of the animals whom reside there.

But don't let the name mislead. There are many more species that inhabit Big Cat Habitat Gulf Coast Sanctuary than lions, ligers and tigers—from a beloved sloth, to exotic parrots, a donkey and a white wolf. The 501c-3 nonprofit organization provides a safe, loving and permanent safe haven to over 150 animals. 

So as not to exclude its other residents that call the Habitat home, the foundation has expanded its yoga program to include its first-ever Fox Yoga fundraising event. "Stormy and Miko⁠, two silver fox brothers, are animal ambassadors here at Big Cat Habitat and will be a part of a new yoga experience," says Renee Ferreira, marketing and events manager. "Funds raised during our Fox Yoga event will be focused towards the care of our foxes and the construction of a new habitat for them."

Guests will not only be able to connect with the majestic animals in a new, unique way (sans barring separation from enclosures), but also partake in an alignment-based, breathing-focused yoga flow in the intimate encounter area with returning instructor Erika Cain. Meanwhile, Stormy and Miko will freely wander and play with the participants. This exclusive experience allows yogis to become immersed in the outdoor environment and the powerful energy of the bushy-tailed creatures.

Registration is $125 per person and includes interactive animal encounter, yoga flow class, light snacks and refreshments, and a single-day pass to return to the habitat during normal business hours, Wednesday through Sunday, 12:00 pm-4:00pm. 

"Donations are one of our main sources of income for the Habitat, which makes fundraisers like Fox Yoga and Yoga With Tigers an incredibly important part of supporting the animals," shares Ferreira. "Our hope is that through this unique experience we will be able to encourage support of our mission to educate our visitors about the importance of species preservation and habitat conservation to ensure the survival of these magnificent animals for future generations, and to keep alive the human-animal connection in our world and in our community."

Fox Yoga: Friday, July 3, 2020. Doors Open at 8:45 am, 60-Minute Flow begins at 9 am. Only six spaces are available and reservations need to be made in advance. The yoga practice is for most levels and will be practicing social distancing throughout the class. Mats will be placed 6ft apart, and masks are 100% required. 

Photo courtesy of Big Cat Habitat Gulf Coast Sanctuary

Reserve your spot and buy tickets to the event here.