By Chelsea Xu, University Life Marketing and Communications
In recognition of National Depression Awareness Month, George Mason University’s Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS) and Graduate Student Life invited students to unwind and de-stress during Doggy Noses & Yoga Poses, held on October 14 at the Johnson Center Bistro. The event combined two scientifically proven mood-boosting practices—spending time with dogs and doing yoga—to promote well-being and balance during a busy semester.
More than 100 students rolled out their mats for a half-hour yoga session led by Kimberly Evering, a Yoga Sculpt Certified and Power Yoga Certified instructor (RYT 200). As Evering guided participants through gentle movements and breathwork, puppies from the Doggy Noses & Yoga Poses Company and the Lost Dog & Cat Rescue Foundation roamed freely around the room, offering playful distractions and heartwarming companionship.
Following the yoga class, attendees enjoyed open puppy playtime, creating a joyful space for connection and stress relief.
This year’s collaboration between CAPS and Graduate Student Life focused on encouraging participation from George Mason’s graduate community—an audience that often faces challenges finding events that align with their schedules and interests. To meet that goal, targeted outreach and flexible event timing helped make the program more accessible to graduate students across disciplines.
“Doggy Noses & Yoga Poses” reflected George Mason’s ongoing commitment to being a Well-Being University, supporting students’ mental health through creative, community-centered programming.