7x playful yoga forms in the Netherlands

Ever tried laughing while sitting in the lotus position? Laughter yoga is the perfect workout for your laughing muscles. Start with a giggle, let it turn into a giggle and before you know it, you'll be rolling off your mat laughing. Sanne or Keshia from Alles Lach are only too happy to help you with this!

It is based on the idea that you don't really need a reason to laugh; the body does not recognise the difference between real and fake laughter. So, even if you start with a forced laugh, it will soon turn into a real laughter. Especially if you are in a group. Who needs sit-ups when you can laugh too?

Stretch out your arm, focus on your beer glass and... cheers! Beer yoga is for everyone in the Netherlands who thinks, "I really should exercise more, but can't resist those tasty beers." Why choose? Do both! And if you fall over, blame it on the yoga, not the beer.

But beer yoga is of course not just an excuse to drink while exercising. It actually challenges you to maintain concentration and balance while holding a beer. Who can approach for a workshop? Brewed by Women of course!

Who said yoga is only for people? Doga is the perfect way to work on the unique bond between you and your dog. Esther from Yoga & Dogs is happy to help you connect, sense and relax.

But besides that, Doga can also help you connect with your dog together. By working together in poses, your dog learns to sense and focus on something from each other. It is also a great way for dogs to socialise with other dogs in a calm and controlled environment.

SUP yoga is not only a test of your balance on Dutch water, but it also helps improve your strength and flexibility. The water provides an unstable surface, so your muscles have to work harder to keep you stable. Moreover, the sounds of the water and the nature around you create a meditative environment that helps you dive deeper into your posture.

Finding balance on a yoga mat is hard enough, let alone on a floating board. But the instructors at Supclub Nederland are happy to help you with that. And remember: if you fall, at least it's in the water. A wet suit is guaranteed, but so is a lot of fun!

Time for a mini-retreat? At Goat Farm Ridammerhoeve, you can take part in goat yoga, or a yoga class with goats. Because let's face it, nothing can brighten up your day like yoga with playful goats around you. As you perform your poses, these curious animals may decide to come and lie down next to you, jump on your back or just frolic around.

Besides being just super fun, goat yoga also has therapeutic benefits. The goats' presence can help reduce anxiety and stress. Their playful nature can also help you get out of your head and focus on the present moment. Plus, it's a great way to connect with animals and nature.

Aerial yoga, also known as hammock yoga, literally takes your practice to a higher level. Using a kind of hammock, you can float above the ground. At Yogadreams in Zaandam, they offer aerial classes for both young and old.

Aerial yoga is not just about performing poses in the air; the hammock also serves as a support tool. For instance, it allows you to experience deep back stretches without pressure on the spine. Moreover, it can help detoxify the body, improve blood circulation and stimulate lymphatic drainage.

For those who think a glass of wine after yoga is not enough. Why wait? Take a sip while you wriggle into a complicated pose. And if you wobble, well, I guess it was that difficult pose and not that second (or third) glass of wine.

Like beer yoga, wine yoga adds an element of fun and challenge. Holding a glass of wine while doing a pose can help you become more aware of your movements and balance. And of course, the antioxidants in wine can also offer some health benefits. Yoga studio LIZ in the Netherlands offers wine yoga alongside other yoga classes. Super fun for an outing with girlfriends or family.