Goat Yoga sounds like something dreamed up after a strong cuppa but the idea actually came together in the most natural way.
This all started with a mobile farm already trotting around schools and retirement homes with their delightfully sociable pygmy goats.
A friend then sent a video of Goat Yoga in America and just like that, the seed was planted. Or more accurately, nibbled.
Leading poses, stealing hearts
The goats are very much their own characters. Like any good yoga class, some are confident and love being front and centre, while others prefer a slower pace, observing with casual indifference.
The goats are very much their own characters. Like any good yoga class, some are confident and love being front and centre, while others prefer a slower pace, observing with casual indifference.
The braver goats make regular appearances, but every member of the herd is trained and ready to join in.
They start once weaned, and the only reason they retire is the hassle of travelling. Honestly, if classes were held on site, the older goats would still be stealing the limelight because they absolutely adore the attention.
Also read: Brisk Walks, Big Gains: Why Japanese Interval Walking Works
Why goats are great
What makes Goat Yoga different from your usual stretch-and-breathe session?
Well, goats.
Once used to calm racehorses, these little furballs are just as good at calming humans. They help lower heart rate, boost mood, and sprinkle in a generous dose of lighthearted chaos.
Once used to calm racehorses, these little furballs are just as good at calming humans. They help lower heart rate, boost mood, and sprinkle in a generous dose of lighthearted chaos.
Yes, you might have to contort yourself around a snoozing goat mid-pose, but that’s all part of the fun.
While you will still feel the physical benefits, the emotional boost is what keeps people coming back. The shift in mood by the end of a session is hard to miss. Smiles appear giggles escape and everyone leaves feeling a little lighter than when they arrived. Even regulars say it never loses its magic.
Behind the scenes the goats’ comfort comes first.
They are used to different environments, lead trained and free to roam during sessions while behaving exactly like goats should. The team is fully licensed and monitored by local authorities and every goat is known individually by those caring for them. Happy goats equal happy yoga.
And then there are the unforgettable moments. A curious nibble of toes or the occasional cheeky poop on someone’s back keeps everyone on their toes (literally) and guarantees a hearty laugh.
Goat with the flow
At the heart of it all is a simple goal.
People should walk out feeling happier more relaxed and slightly in love with a goat or three. For the hosts the best part is witnessing the pure joy that comes from these interactions.
People should walk out feeling happier more relaxed and slightly in love with a goat or three.
And if the goats could have the final word they would probably wonder why everyone insists on such odd stretches when the real skill is knowing how to snuggle down and relax.
Keen to try some Goat Yoga yourself? Find them at www.muckybucketfarm.co.uk or follow them on Instagram.
