Tina Kennedy, yoga, meditation, and mindfulness instructor hailing from Offaly, seamlessly blended her two greatest passions to curate a truly unique and captivating experience for her classes and workshops.

By intertwining the harmonious practices of yoga with her deep love for animals, Tina crafted a remarkable way to help cultivate mindfulness.

READ MORE: Cork woman credits yoga as major part of her healing journey from an eating disorder

Speaking to RSVP Live, Tina shared her insights, “From a research point of view in terms of the nervous system, time spent with animals is actually one of the highest ranking elements in keeping a regulated nervous system. A big part of practicing wellness concentrates a great deal around your nervous system.”

“For example, if you're around somebody who's an extremely stressful person or if you're in a very stressful environment, that is going to tilt your nervous system.”

"However, the more time you spend in situations and in circumstances around elements that keep your nervous system regulated, the more calm you'll be"

Interacting with animals releases feel-good hormones such as oxytocin and serotonin, which can enhance your mood, boost happiness, and alleviate symptoms of depression.

Their presence can help reduce stress, anxiety, and promote relaxation during yoga practice
Their presence can help reduce stress, anxiety, and promote relaxation during yoga practice

Tina added "Watching them play and being present in their natural environment and accompanying them in their day to day peacefulness, is an incredible way to keep your nervous system regulated."

"They're not doing anything, just being there with you without judgment, they don't care what you are wearing, how much money you earn or how many instagram followers you have."

Practicing yoga with a pet or in the presence of animals can foster a sense of connection and support. Animals can offer a non-judgmental space where you feel accepted and loved, promoting emotional wellbeing.

“When I started this, this is not what was in my mind, I just literally enjoyed it. I found over time, that I started to stop doing the things that I didn't enjoy”

Horses, goats and dogs are some of the animals that accompany Tina
Horses, goats and dogs are some of the animals that accompany Tina

The simple life becomes blissful Tina added “I suppose my life became more simple. The animals were a huge part of that. I've always been drawn to working with kids and younger people. Which is a big part of my career now. They are playful and they're so connected to what feels good.”

"They are just in a state of being. Whereas I think adults are always in a state of doing or thinking and it's very difficult to just be."

Tina acknowledges that the delightful presence of her cuddly companions has been an invaluable source of wisdom and growth in her life.

"The animals are the root of all of my practices because they have taught me how to just sit and stop"

"It's been one of the most incredible teachers in my own meditation practice and my own mindfulness practice to be fully present."

You can follow Tina @tina_kenno_yoga for more.

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