What is Goat Yoga?
Jack UtermoehlGoat yoga is a playful and unique practice that combines traditional asanas (physical postures) with the presence of live goats.
This lighthearted approach to yoga emphasizes joy, connection, and relaxation, as practitioners interact with friendly goats while flowing through yoga poses. Goat yoga offers a mix of mindfulness and laughter, creating a memorable experience that appeals to people of all ages and fitness levels.
Beyond the fun of having goats join the practice, goat yoga can help reduce stress, increase endorphins, and promote mindfulness. The presence of animals has been shown to encourage relaxation and enhance emotional well-being, making goat yoga a perfect combination of movement, nature, and joy.
Origins of Goat Yoga
Goat yoga was created in 2016 by Lainey Morse, a farm owner in Oregon who noticed the therapeutic effects of spending time with her goats.
Combining her love of yoga with the playful and calming nature of goats, Morse hosted the first goat yoga class on her farm. The concept quickly gained popularity due to its novelty and the emotional benefits people experienced during the classes.
Today, goat yoga classes and events are held worldwide, often in outdoor settings like farms or community spaces, where participants can connect with nature and enjoy the presence of goats.
Practicing Goat Yoga
Goat yoga classes typically take place in open spaces where goats can roam freely among participants. The practice includes gentle yoga poses, with breaks to interact with the goats. It emphasizes fun and relaxation rather than a rigorous physical workout, making it accessible for everyone.
Gentle yoga poses: The yoga practice focuses on simple poses that are easy to hold, allowing participants to enjoy the presence of the goats.
Goat interaction: The goats often climb on participants or nuzzle them during poses, adding an element of surprise and joy.
Mindfulness: The playful atmosphere encourages participants to be present and embrace the moment without judgment.
Common Practices
- Child’s pose (balasana)
- Cat-cow pose (marjaryasana-bitilasana)
- Downward dog (adho mukha svanasana)
- Seated forward fold (paschimottanasana)
- Savasana (corpse pose)
Goat Yoga Suitability
Experience level: Beginner-friendly, suitable for all
Physical demand: Gentle movement
Mind-body engagement: Balanced mind-body
Adaptability: Highly adaptable
Focus area: Stress relief, emotional well-being, and social connection
Notes on Goat Yoga
Practicing goat yoga is less about rigorous exercise and more about having fun, relieving stress, and connecting with goats.
The goats bring a sense of playfulness and unpredictability to the practice, helping participants embrace the present moment. Goat yoga fosters emotional healing, laughter, and joy, while still offering gentle physical benefits.
Similar Styles
Laughter Yoga, Restorative Yoga, Gentle Yoga
Equipment
Required: Yoga Mat
Nice to have: Comfortable Clothing, Yoga Blanket
Optional: Mat Towel, Water Bottle
References and Resources
‘The Little Book of Goat Yoga: Poses and Wisdom to Inspire Your Practice’ by Lainey Morse
'A Beginner's Guide to Goat Yoga: Yes, it is Actually a Thing' by Sarah Jackson
'Goat Yoga: The Light in Me Honors the Goat in You' by Yoga Shenanigoats (Author), Ashley Hylbert (Photographer)
