Dog & Cat Child's Pose

A Gentle Yoga Flow for Deep Stretching and Calm

The Dog & Cat Child’s Pose is a versatile yoga exercise that blends grounding motions with mindful stretches to relax your muscles and calm your mind. Perfect for all levels, this pose combines elements of the traditional Child’s Pose with the flowing movements of Dog & Cat Tilt, creating a restorative experience that enhances flexibility and relieves tension.

Whether you’re a yoga novice or a seasoned practitioner, this pose offers a perfect balance of movement and stillness, allowing you to reconnect with your body and breath.

What Is the Dog & Cat Child’s Pose?

The Dog & Cat Child’s Pose is a sequence of flowing transitions between the classic Child’s Pose and gentle Dog & Cat stretches. It targets the lower back, spine, shoulders, and hips, bringing flexibility to areas where tension often resides. This unique combination unites the benefits of two beloved poses into one soothing, dynamic flow that promotes both relaxation and fluidity.

By syncing your breath with movement, this pose encourages mindfulness while delivering a full-body stretch that supports recovery and daily well-being.

Benefits of Incorporating the Dog & Cat Child’s Pose into Your Practice

Make this pose a regular part of your yoga routine to unlock its full range of physical and mental benefits. Here’s what this exercise can do for you:

Enhanced Spinal Mobility: The flowing movements help release stiffness along the spine, improving flexibility.
Full-Body Stretch: Targets key areas like the lower back, hips, shoulders, and neck to release tension.
Stress Relief: Combines grounding poses with rhythmic breathing to quiet the mind and reduce stress.
Improved Posture: Strengthens back and abdominal muscles that support healthy alignment.
Mindfulness Connection: Encourages deep breathing and focused attention, promoting overall mental clarity.

How Often Should You Do Yoga Poses?

For optimal results, include the Dog & Cat Child’s Pose 2–3 times a week—or even daily if your body craves extra stretching and relaxation. It can serve as the perfect warm-up at the start of your yoga session, a calming cooldown at the end, or a standalone self-care break whenever you need to de-stress.

Learn From Yoga Instructor Stefan Storace

Want to perfect your practice? Yoga instructor Stefan Storace (ERYT-200) has created an exclusive instructional video to guide you step-by-step through the pose. With his expert tips, you’ll learn how to flow seamlessly while maximizing the benefits for your body and mind.

Want personalized guidance? Schedule a 1-on-1 session or a class with Stefan at Garden of Yoga.

Take a Yoga Class Online or In Person

Beyond individual poses, Garden of Yoga offers an inspiring range of classes designed to support your wellness goals. From calming restorative sessions to energizing flows, our classes cater to all levels and schedules. Join our community of like-minded individuals and experience how yoga can transform your mind, body, and life.

Explore our class schedule and sign up today to take your practice to the next level!

2025 Class Schedule

We offer flexible class times and formats so you can find the balance that fits your life. We offer classes in person at our studio and online! Classes are scheduled in Pacific Standard Time.

Weekly Schedule

Monday: 5:00 PM Mindful Yoga with Stefan
Tuesday: 9:30 AM Pranayama & Meditation with Stefan | 5:00 PM Restorative Yoga with Stefan
Wednesday: 5:00 PM Mindful Yoga with Stefan
Thursday: 9:30 AM Gentle Yoga with Diana | 5:00 PM Restorative Yoga with Stefan
Sunday: 10:00 AM Mindful Yoga with Stefan | 11:30 AM Mixed Level Yoga with Diana

Don’t see the class you are looking for? Check out our complete yoga class list or reach out to learn more about our personalized yoga sessions.

See What Our Students Are Saying

A good friend of mine brought me to the Garden of Yoga when we were seventeen. We used to commute to Bryan Kest's Power Yoga in Santa Monica for Sunday morning sessions. On the days we didn't feel like commuting we'd come here. Stefan and his wife are the real deal, they have literally committed their lives to each other, their family, and the practice of yoga. Their technique is a blend of many masters from India. They don't play music in any of the classes, but instead they fill the air with mantras and other beautiful sounds. The class is not rushed at all and their attentiveness to your practice is very present. I really love the location of this studio, it's very serene and cozy. They're both incredibly personable and generous people. This is a very special gem in California.

The teacher makes all the difference!! Diana and Stefan are the BEST!!! They changed my yoga experience and practice and life!! If you are considering yoga or want to try, just stop in to this causal, warm inviting home based studio. No stress and no pretentious People here. As they will tell you time and time again, yoga is not a competition, it Should feel good!! And at Garden of yoga it does feel good. I have been to other studios and I always feel like I am cheating on them. It's that good. If you want a easy, relaxing experience try restorative class. Offered about once a Month or so these classes are super good. If you want hard, take an advanced or private.

You know how hard it is to find an amazing yoga teacher that inspires you and guides you with a perfect blend of knowledge and humor? Let me introduce you to Stefan! His beautiful, peaceful sanctuary is nestled at the end of a cul-de-sac in a quiet and private location and Stefan will make you so grateful you found it. I met Stefan through my teacher training and was totally impressed with the depth of his knowledge and the easy skill he wields in his practices which are fun, challenging, and educational (at least for me!). I highly recommend the Garden of Yoga if you're looking for an expertly executed and engaging yoga experience.

FAQ

Can I still do yoga if I'm really inflexible?

The more inflexible you are, the better yoga works. It’s not about how deep you can stretch into poses, it’s more about listening to your body.

How long should I wait to eat before yoga?

It’s best on an empty stomach but if you must eat before class then a light snack that is easily digested. We also recommended that you are properly hydrated before a class so drink some water.

How often should I practice yoga?

We suggest at least two or three times a week, for at least 20- 75 minutes per session. Most importantly listen to your body and make decisions based on how you feel.