BY STEVEN STIEFEL FOR THE OBSERVER
LEE COUNTY — Looking for a workout that blends relaxation, exercise and… farm animals? An upcoming local event will allow you to stretch, breathe and maybe even get a surprise back massage — from a goat.
Goat yoga started as a quirky fitness trend but has since gone global, proving that people will do just about anything for stress relief. During class, playful goats roam freely, sometimes hopping onto backs, nuzzling faces or simply flopping down like they, too, have had a long week. The goats aren’t trained, but their natural curiosity and social nature make every session an unpredictable adventure.
“It’s all about getting outdoors, surrounding yourself with loving therapy animals and disconnecting from stress,” said Lainey Morse, an Oregon farm owner who introduced goat yoga to the world in 2016. “It’s good for the mind, body and soul and is the best natural medicine.”
The idea quickly went viral, because, let’s be honest, who wouldn’t want to swap a yoga mat for a goat cuddle?
Morse said the presence of goats creates a laid-back, laughter-filled atmosphere, making it easier for people to embrace imperfection.
“It’s a happy distraction,” she said. “Whether you’re dealing with stress, illness or just need a break from life, a goat nuzzling your ear tends to put things in perspective.”
The goats, true to their nature, enjoy the attention. Some yogis skip the poses altogether and opt for goat snuggles, which, unlike a standard yoga instructor, won’t judge you for lying in child’s pose the whole time.
Yoga Auburn is bringing Goat Yoga to Choctafaula Ranch this month. A 30-minute beginners’ class for children ages 5-12, accompanied by an adult, is set for Sunday, Feb. 9 at 1 p.m. and costs $30. Expect baby goats to frolic freely, because they have no respect for personal space. Also on Feb. 9, a 45-minute adult class is scheduled for 2:30 p.m. for $45.
For those who prefer their yoga with a side of vino, a second adult session led by Be Yoga Owner Donna Johnson Kell is planned for Thursday, Feb. 13, at 6 p.m. Tickets are $55 and include a glass of wine for participants 21 and older with ID.
Attendees should bring their own yoga mat or towel (preferably one they don’t mind sharing with a goat). To learn more or buy tickets, go to the website: visitchoctafaula.com.
