Classic Toy Soldiers Trade Their Guns for Yoga Mats

Remember those little green plastic soldiers we all played with as kids? Well, one imaginative designer has given them a delightful twist, swapping out their weapons for yoga mats!

Meet the Creator

Meet Jake Thompson, a yoga enthusiast from San Francisco, who came up with the idea for Yoga Warriors—an innovative take on those classic toy soldiers. After discovering yoga as a remedy for his back pain, he wanted to inspire more men, boys, and especially veterans, to embrace the calming benefits of yoga.

The Kickstarter Campaign

To share his passion, Jake launched a Kickstarter campaign to bring his vision to life. The response was overwhelming—he managed to raise more than twice his initial goal of $40,000, leading to the creation of Yoga Warriors, the iconic green army figures striking various yoga poses instead of traditional combat stances.

Design and Purpose

These playful figures are available in both green and pink, designed to promote the positive aspects of yoga while embodying what Jake believes are the admirable traits of soldiers. He describes them as “peacekeepers,” aiming to showcase a more inclusive and uplifting representation of both men and women in uniform.

Impact on Military Families

Yoga Warriors have quickly gained popularity, particularly among military families. They’ve resonated with those dealing with PTSD who find solace in yoga, as well as families of deployed soldiers who want their children to celebrate their heroes in a non-violent way. One parent shared her joy with Jake, expressing her relief that her kids could enjoy a soldier-themed toy without the anxiety tied to warfare, especially with their dad overseas.

A Refreshing Alternative

The concept of Yoga Warriors was unexpected, but judging by the heartfelt reactions, Jake was spot-on. These toys not only encourage physical and mental well-being through yoga but also humanize the soldier figure, offering a refreshing alternative to the often rigid and combat-focused imagery of traditional toy soldiers.

Conclusion

It’s truly heartening to see children with loved ones away from home able to play and honor their heroes in a peaceful context. Plus, the humor of a little green figure in Tree Pose is undeniably charming! Jake’s mission to modernize a childhood classic has clearly been a success.

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Summary

Yoga Warriors transform the classic toy soldiers into figures practicing yoga, promoting peace and wellness. Created by Jake Thompson, these toys resonate with military families and those seeking a positive representation of soldiers.