The present invention is a shaped yoga mat and methods of using the inventive yoga mat that are directed towards instructing children. The inventive yoga mats have a flat center and a fringe area extending away laterally. The fringe area can be cut or trimmed into a variety of shapes that appeal to children, such as an animal or vehicle. A yoga instructor can then use the uniquely shaped yoga mats to spark a child's imagination through the use of exercises with a theme related to the yoga mats.
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