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RSW Living Magazine

A Soothing Way to Help Shelter Animals

Aug 01, 2024 08:00AM ● By Ann M. O’Phelan

Photo Courtesy of The Westin Cape Coral Resort at Marina Village. 

“I am proud that we can give back to something near and dear to me—animal rescue, " says Robin Griffiths, Founder of ReChargeMe Zone. 

Her company, ReChargeMe Zone, began offering Yoga for the Shelter classes in December 2020 to benefit the Cape Coral Animal  Shelter. Indeed, it all started right at the  Cape Coral Animal Shelter outside on the grass. 

“We would practice yoga with pups barking in the background, dog walkers watching us, and veterinarian office attendees asking what we were doing,” explains Griffiths. About a year later, the group moved to Mercola Market, then to the Westin Cape Coral Resort at Marina Village in August of 2022, as the Village offers alternatives for inclement weather. All yoga classes are $10 with half the proceeds going to the Cape Coral Animal Shelter.  

Photo Courtesy of The Westin Cape Coral Resort at Marina Village. 

“So far, around $5000 has been donated to the  shelter,” explains Griffiths.  “This project has allowed us to enjoy yoga in a beautiful environment, support a great cause, and spread the word about pets who need help finding their forever home,” says Griffiths. 

Many participants come weekly to enjoy yoga’s benefits, including stress management, improved posture, better sleep, flexibility, and strength.  

All Yoga for the Shelter classes are held on Saturday mornings from 8 a.m. to 9 a.m. on the gazebo lawn at the Westin Cape Coral Resort at Marina Village in Cape Coral. 

“It's a beautiful view with soft breezes and a lovely environment. There’s artificial turf, so no worries of ant bites,” states Griffiths. 

Classes may be held indoors if there is a conflicting event, inclement weather, or other issue. The gentle and slow-paced one-hour classes are great for beginners to release tension, stretch the entire body, and relax the mind. Modifications are given throughout the practice to make it accessible for everyone. Participants can either sign up online or drop in and pay with cash.  They should bring a yoga mat, towel, and water.  An option is to have yoga blocks and a strap. Guests at the resort are also welcome to join.  

For more information about Yoga for the Shelter , visit www.rechargemezone.com or email  [email protected]

Plan Your Visit:

  • Classes are held at Westin Cape Coral Resort at Marina Village, 5951 Silver King Blvd, Cape Coral, 239-541-5000, marriott.com
  • Find other ways you can help shelter animals at Cape Coral Animal Shelter, 325 SW 2nd Ave., Cape Coral, 239-573-2002, capecoralanimalshelter.com
Ann Marie O’Phelan is a SW Florida resident and a regular contributor to TOTI Media.