First off, when I set out to write this blog, the intention was to let both participants and practitioners know what to expect when they get started. After teaching my first goat yoga class last night, I wanted to break it down into the TOP 4 THINGS TO EXPECT FROM A GOAT YOGA CLASS. So here they are.
1. Don’t expect a sublime, mystical, transformative yoga experience.
Let’s be honest. Goat yoga is about 10% yoga and 90% petting, cuddling, and taking pictures of goats. While you should expect some poses that will enable you to be present with these intelligent and fun creatures, you aren’t going to be doing a full out yoga practice with chanting, meditation, and introspection. While you might experience some unexpected emotions, chances are, fun is the priority.
2. Prepare for lot of dirt, smells, sounds, and bugs.
Chances are you will be doing your goat yoga class outdoors at a farm. You will more than likely experience lots of interesting farm fragrances, lots of dirt (and poo), and plenty of bugs. If you are averse to any of these things, this may not be up your alley. Two big tips here: don’t bring your expensive yoga mat (a towel is perfectly sufficient) and don’t eat anything that looks like a chocolate covered raisin.
3. Find joy and peace and an opportunity to learn from goats.
Goats symbolically represent confidence, sure-footedness, and balance. Many of the traits that we are looking for in our day-to-day, not only our yoga practice. Take some time during your goat yoga practice to appreciate these incredible creatures. Goats were the first ever domesticated animals so they have a long and committed relationship with humans. We have so much to learn from one another.
4. Expect plenty of distractions.
Not only are goats curious and often extremely vocal, they like to sniff and lick and play. Expect to be distracted plenty of times during your practice. While there are plenty of distractions during the practice, it’s also a good thing to keep in mind the other participants. Remember, they may be coming for more peace and tranquility so it’s probably a good idea to refrain from making loud noises, moving around the yoga space unnecessarily, or creating overwhelming distractions. Another thing to keep in mind…it’s probably not the best place to take an unruly child. If you’re considering bringing a youngster under the age of 10, make sure they are well behaved and not distracting to the other participants. If not, it’s probably best to bring them to a petting zoo for their goat fix.
A special thank you to Barton’s Landing in Benson, NC for hosting our goat yoga class. Please check them out on Facebook and Instagram!