What's the Deal With Goat Yoga?
Ever thought about finding your inner peace…while a friendly goat nibbles on your yoga mat? If that sounds like an intriguing twist on your usual downward dog, then goat yoga might be the perfect fit for you.
It might sound like a passing trend, but the reality is that goat yoga is exploding in popularity all over the country. In fact, there are now more than 500 different goat yoga businesses currently up and running!
At The Hunter Farm, we specialize in a variety of fun farm experiences, and goat yoga is one of them. In this post, we’ll tell you exactly what it is, and why it’s something you need to experience ASAP.
What’s All the Hype About Goat Yoga?
Goat yoga is exactly what it sounds like—you do yoga, and goats wander around you, occasionally climbing on you or snuggling up to you.
It all started in Oregon in 2016 when Lainey Morse combined her love of yoga with her herd of goats, sparking a nationwide trend. It started with goat happy hour, allowing people to spend time with the animals, and morphed into the phenomenon it is today.
Now, goat yoga classes are popping up everywhere, offering participants a delightful mix of relaxation, exercise, and animal therapy.
You might wonder, why goats? Goats are naturally curious, gentle, and social animals. They’re incredibly playful, with their antics bringing a smile to just about anyone’s face.
Benefits of Goat Yoga
There are numerous benefits to combining yoga with goats.
First, being around animals has been shown to reduce stress and anxiety. The physical touch and playful presence of goats can release oxytocin, the "feel-good" hormone.
Yoga is also a fantastic way to improve flexibility, strength, and mental clarity.
Why Choose The Hunter Farm?
Located in the heart of Weddington, NC, The Hunter Farm is the perfect place to experience goat yoga, whether it’s your first time trying it or you’re a repeat customer. Our family-owned farm offers a range of activities and events that bring people closer to nature. H
We have a beautiful, serene setting that’s perfect for outdoor yoga classes. Imagine doing your sun salutations with a backdrop of rolling hills, lush greenery, and the sounds of nature. It’s a far cry from the hustle and bustle of city life and offers a tranquil escape where you can truly unwind.
At The Hunter Farm, you’re in good hands. Our goat yoga classes are led by experienced instructors who guide participants through each pose with ease and expertise. When you attend a goat yoga class here, you’re not just a participant; you’re part of a family.
What to Expect in a Goat Yoga Class
If you’re new to goat yoga, you might be wondering what to expect.
Each session lasts about 45 minutes and is conducted during sunset for the best possible ambiance. We offer sessions multiple times per month, with each session including complimentary parking, a relaxing wagon ride to the goat barn, and some fun Hunter Farm swag.
We suggest you bring your mat and towel, along with yoga clothes. Don’t bring your favorites (they might get dirty!). You’ll also want some bug spray, a water bottle, and of course, a fully charged phone for photos.
Before the class begins, there’s usually a bit of time for participants to meet the goats and each other.
The yoga session itself includes a series of poses designed to stretch and strengthen the body. Throughout the session, the goats roam freely, often interacting with participants in endearing ways. Don’t be surprised if a goat hops onto your back during a plank pose or nuzzles you during a forward fold!
After the yoga session, there’s more time to relax and enjoy the company of the goats.
If it's your first time trying goat yoga, here are a few tips to help you make the most of the experience:
Wear Comfortable Clothing: Opt for comfortable, stretchy clothing that allows you to move freely. Keep in mind that goats might nibble on loose clothing, so avoid anything too baggy.
Bring a Towel or Mat Cover: Goats are adorable but can be messy. Bringing a towel or mat cover can help keep your yoga mat clean.
Stay Open-Minded: The unpredictable nature of goats means that anything can happen during the session. Relax and have fun with it!
Making the Most of Your Visit to The Hunter Farm
When you visit The Hunter Farm for goat yoga, there’s plenty more to explore. You can take a tour of the farm and meet all the animals in our petting zoo, ideally after enjoying one of our guided wagon rides.
We also host several other seasonal events throughout the year, including pumpkin patches in the fall to strawberry picking in the spring.
And don’t forget to check out our farm store, where you can purchase fresh produce, homemade jams, and other delightful goodies!
Remember, goat yoga at The Hunter Farm is more than just a yoga class; it’s an experience that combines the beauty of nature, the joy of animal interaction, and the benefits of a mindful practice. Whether you’re a seasoned yogi or a curious newcomer, you’ll find something to love about this unique activity.
Ready to give goat yoga a try? Book your class today and enjoy the simple pleasures of life, one goat nuzzle at a time.
