Browse ›
Older woman in glasses stretches on a green yoga mat while a gray Russian Blue cat stretches low beside her hands. 27 / 38

Grandma Rolled Out Her Yoga Mat for Morning Stretches and Got an Unexpected Partner

AI imagerussian blueyogaliving room

The living room has been cleared for morning stretches, and a sage-green yoga mat is rolled out across the wooden floor. Grandma Dottie, wearing her glasses and cream cardigan, kneels and leans forward with her palms pressed flat on the mat, easing into a gentle stretch. Right next to her hands, Sterling has stretched out too, front legs reaching long, back end following, his gray body low to the mat in what looks like a perfect cat pose. A coffee mug, a book and a spare pair of reading glasses sit on the floor nearby, and soft light filters through sheer curtains.

Gentle stretching is a popular way for many older adults to stay limber, and having a pet join in can make the routine more fun. Cats are expert stretchers themselves. They stretch frequently, especially after naps, which helps loosen muscles and get blood moving. You may notice your cat seems to copy you on a mat, but they're often simply drawn to a soft surface and your attention. For anyone starting a new exercise routine, it's wise to check with a doctor first and to move slowly. Keep the mat clear of tripping hazards, including a cat who suddenly decides to lie down right where your next pose goes.

Whether Sterling is really doing yoga or just enjoying the floor time, it's clear he takes his stretches seriously. With a partner like this, it's easy to keep showing up on the mat every morning.

More from this collection

All 38 →
Gray-haired woman sleeps on a plaid blanket on the lawn at dusk, a gray Russian Blue cat curled asleep against her chest.Grandma Lay Down on the Lawn at Sunset. The Porch Light Came On Without Her.Smiling woman holds a sandwich at a wooden picnic table under string lights as a gray Russian Blue cat sniffs it closely.Grandma Brought Her Sandwich Out Under the String Lights. She Never Got the First Bite.
Older woman holds a gray Russian Blue cat at a window as snow falls over a white backyard outside.The First Snow Started Falling, and Grandma Knew Exactly Who Needed to See ItOlder woman reads aloud from a small book on a green sofa as a gray Russian Blue cat sits beside her looking up.Grandma Started Reading Her Book Out Loud. One Listener Didn't Look Away Once.Older woman in glasses reads a worn folded letter in an armchair while a gray cat rests its head on her knee.Grandma Unfolded a Letter She Has Read So Many Times. Sterling Knew What to Do.Smiling gray-haired woman sits on a beach boardwalk deck while a gray Russian Blue cat perches beside her.Most People Bring a Towel to the Beach. Grandma Brought a Russian Blue.