Courtesy of the National Aviary.

National Aviary
August 17 & 20
Various times

Yoga is popping up all over Pittsburgh and not just in studios and gyms. From bridges to parks to museums, acolytes of the practice can be seen saluting the sun, balancing their chakras, and seeking shavasana.

Courtesy of National Aviary.
Courtesy of National Aviary.

With a new twist on the ancient practice, the National Aviary is inviting yoga lovers of all ages and levels to perfect their downward-facing dog and get cozy with some of its coolest residents.

Teaming up with WHIRL Magazine, the Aviary is hosting two 60-minute “Yoga with Penguins” sessions in its scenic Rose Garden. Conveniently offered during both evening and morning times, the sessions will take place on Wednesday, August 17, from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m., and on Saturday, August 20, from 8:30 to 10:00 a.m.

Courtesy of National Aviary.
Courtesy of National Aviary.

The class on August 17 will be led by Mandy Newport from South Hills Power Yoga, while Jenn Ferris Glick from Exhale Yoga will teach the August 20 session. Both hourlong sessions are open to all levels, and participants must bring their own mat.

Ready for a cool down? After the reviving yoga class, participants will get up-close and personal with the Aviary’s African Penguin colony, and snap selfies with the flightless wonders.

All attendees will also receive a complimentary subscription to Edible Allegheny, a local food magazine that supports Pittsburgh’s agricultural community and celebrates cooking in conjunction for the four seasons.

Advanced registration required. Go here to see class fees and register online today.

Looking for more events? Read our 10 Pittsburgh events not to miss in August, Everything you need to know about Pittsburgh concerts in August and Top 10 things for families to do in August in Pittsburgh feature stories.

Jennifer has worked at the Mattress Factory, Brooklyn Museum of Art and Dahesh Museum of Art and is co-author of Pittsburgh Signs Project: 250 Signs of Western Pennsylvania. She also is co-coordinator of Handmade Arcade. Musically, she is in a band called The Garment District and is a founding member of Brooklyn's The Ladybug Transistor.