My Experience Going to a Chicken Yoga Class in Tampa, Florida
On the last Sunday of every month, Hotel Haya (Ybor City) hosts an installment of chicken yoga presented by Yoga Loft Tampa, in collaboration with the Ybor Misfits Microsanctuary, a non-profit animal rescue. Tickets are $15, with a percentage of proceeds directly helping Ybor City's severely injured, sick, and abandoned chickens, birds, and roosters.
You can expect a relaxing gentle flow yoga class, with emphasis on breathing and stillness. The instructor led us through a gentle warm-up, guiding us into common beginner yoga poses like downward dog, child’s pose, and warrior. I’ll admit, there were moments where I found myself struggling to hold my balance, especially as we moved into more complex poses. Yoga can feel intimidating, especially in a setting where you’re surrounded by dozens of strangers—but that was not the case at this class. There is a very mellow and friendly atmosphere. Quickly, you’ll be reassured that about perfection or comparison—it's about tuning into your own body, and finding your own strengths. The instructor was patient and offered modifications for certain poses, which made the class approachable for those who are just starting to get into yoga. While the class is in session, a handful of chickens from the Misfits microsanctuary roam around in colorful, eccentric diapers. Yes. Diapers. It’s adorable and equally hilarious because while you’re in the middle of a pose, a little chicken will greet you at the foot of your yoga mat.
After class, you’ll get more personal time to cuddle and pet the chickens, and talk to the volunteers from the microsanctuary. Coffee, tea, and champagne are offered after the class. I would recommend attending a class with a friend, sibling, or significant other. It’s the perfect way to start the week off. Chilled, and at ease. After the chicken yoga class I eat brunch at Hotel Haya’s Latin-influenced restaurant/bar: Flor Fina.
You can purchase tickets for chicken yoga here. For more information about Ybor Misfits Microsanctuary, visit @theybormisfits on Instagram or www.yborchickens.org.
