Remember those little green plastic soldiers that filled your childhood playtime? One innovative designer has given them a delightful twist, swapping out their machine guns for yoga mats.
Meet Sam Harrison
Sam Harrison, a yoga enthusiast from San Francisco, created Yoga Soldiers—an imaginative take on the classic toy aimed at encouraging boys, men, and especially veterans to embrace the calming practice of yoga. After discovering yoga as a remedy for back pain, Sam wanted to share its benefits with a broader audience.
Kickstarter Success
To bring his vision to life, he turned to Kickstarter, aiming to raise $40,000. The project was a smashing success, more than doubling its goal, and thus Yoga Soldiers were born—little green army figures striking traditional yoga poses instead of their usual militant stances.
Gender-Neutral Design
These Yoga Soldiers are designed to be gender-neutral, available in both green and pink. Sam wanted to emphasize the positive attributes of soldiers, branding them as “peacekeepers” striving to do good. The goal was to present a more inclusive and uplifting image of those who serve, breaking away from the typical violent narrative often associated with military toys.
Positive Response
The response has been overwhelmingly positive, particularly among military families. Yoga Soldiers resonate with those dealing with PTSD, providing a gentle approach to healing. Families with deployed members love them too, as they allow children to honor their heroic relatives without the reminders of war.
A Touching Story
In an interview, Sam shared a touching story about a mother who avoids violent toys because her partner is stationed overseas. She was thrilled to find Yoga Soldiers, allowing her kids to engage in imaginative play with soldiers in a peaceful context. “She’s ecstatic that her children can play with soldiers without the anxiety of danger looming over them,” Sam noted.
A Brilliant Idea
While I never thought a toy like Yoga Soldiers would be necessary, it’s clear Sam’s idea was brilliant. They not only promote wellness through yoga but also present a refreshing, human side to the archetypal soldier. Unlike traditional G.I. Joe figures, these little warriors convey a sense of warmth and compassion.
Celebrating Heroes
It’s heartwarming to imagine children with loved ones deployed enjoying playtime with these figures, celebrating their heroes in a non-combative way. Plus, who can resist the charm of a tiny army figure in a Tree Pose? Sam’s goal to reinvent a classic childhood staple was undoubtedly achieved.
Further Reading
For more insights into family-friendly topics, check out our post on at-home insemination kits. You can also explore helpful resources on pregnancy and home insemination at WomensHealth.gov.
Conclusion
In summary, Yoga Soldiers are changing the narrative around traditional toy soldiers, promoting peace, mindfulness, and a healthier lifestyle while providing a comforting play experience for children with military connections.