From Barnyard to Mat: Goat Yoga Rises in Popularity

Participants settle onto their mats, focusing on their breath, as the soft hum of the morning surrounds them. But then a tiny hoof taps a woman's shoulder, and a goat nuzzles its way into downward dog – or rather “downward goat.”  

This is goat yoga: where the familiar rhythms of a traditional yoga class are interrupted by the presence of farm animals.  

(Photo/Mia Muzzi)

Cal Poly students play with goats during their yoga class.

Similar to a typical yoga class, goat yoga aims to cultivate physical, mental, and emotional well-being. Participants follow an instructor and move through various yoga positions throughout the class, with the addition of a furry friend at their side. Some members choose to include the goat in their exercises, carefully placing them on their backs or stomachs to engage with the nature around them entirely.  

 

According to CNN, Lainey Morse coined the term “goat yoga” on her scenic Oregon farm a few years ago. The idea blossomed after a child’s birthday party hosted on her property, resulting in thousands of curious people signing up. The impact it had was something completely unexpected. 

 

“It may sound silly, but goat yoga is really helping people,” Morse told CNN. “People come in that have anxiety, depression; they’re recovering from cancer or illness.”  

 

Over the last few months, goat yoga has reached its way to the San Luis Obispo area. Attracting individuals interested in bettering their physical and mental health, this activity has been successful in the sunny SLO weather. What began on a small Oregon farm quickly became a sensation as locations like the Madonna Inn and Mullenax Ranch began offering regular classes throughout the summer months of 2024.  

 

Lily Simmons is a third-year student at Cal Poly and is licensed to teach yoga classes. Although she has not yet taught a goat yoga class, she has attended them and finds them to be both relaxing and stimulating.  

 

“Yoga classes can be pretty intense physically and so I like to sometimes switch it up and do goat yoga because it’s way more laid back and honestly just a good time,” Simmons said. “People tend to underestimate the benefits of just getting outside and being with animals, and it can be really beneficial for your brain.”  

 

Given its popularity around the county, Cal Poly’s Associated Students, Inc. (ASI) hosted two goat yoga events on the Health Lawn this past year. Free of charge for students, the session was guided by a certified yoga instructor and included many baby goats for attendees to spend time with.  

 

First-year student Sadie Scherer participated in the event on Oct. 10, shortly before midterm exams.  

 

“It was a super fun and new way to do yoga,” she said. “The instructor led us through a flow while goats roamed around with us. It made the class a lot more casual and less structured, but in a good way, and I would totally recommend it to anyone, whether they struggle with their mental health or not.”