Whether you live in the country or city goat yoga is popping up everywhere. Being a down to earth animal lover country girl, I was ecstatic when I saw the flyer for goat yoga hosted at the local lavender farm. Recruiting others, \ a tribe of six family and friends were “all in” to experience goat yoga for the first time.
A picturesque landscape set the tone for a mind renewing evening . After a long hot day, we were thankful for the gentle breeze that began to cool the air. Six adorable miniature goats nestled in a sea of lavender welcomed us.
Hardly able to contain our excitement we quickly joined the kids on the ground for some before yoga play time. I began to think this may not be a good thing. Would my hubby be mad if I smuggled one of these bundles of joy home? Playtime was quickly brought to an end as the instructors brought us together.
Our yoga practice began with twenty-two yogis taking a meditated walk through the lavender fields. As we breathed in and out with each step taking in the aromatic scent of lavender, the effects of the day began to flow out of our bodies and evaporate into the air. Walking barefoot deepened our connection with the earth, heightening our awareness with nature. Our thoughts became focused on our intention for the evening, such as love, kindness, patience, etc.
After our walk we joined the rambunctious kids on our mats. Our fearless friends stopped by to pay their respects as we transitioned through multiple poses. Giggles and chuckles filled the air with several yogis on their mats cuddling their visitors. And yes, some mats were christened by our youngsters. That’s just one small hazard of goat yoga.
I have to admit I was one of those yogis that couldn’t stay focused on yoga. Between taking pictures and sitting on the ground in playtime my practice was very limited. Needless to say, the benefits were not lost. Any anxiety or stress from the day quickly melted away. The cute carefree, kind-hearted critters melted my heart. They were the best therapeutic remedy anyone could ask for.
The last fifteen minutes was dedicated to play time. I don’t know who enjoyed it more the goats or the yogis. As our practice ended the sun began to set, spreading its parting rays across the sky. The clouds were painted with fiery tones, and the glow of gorgeous colors spread across the field. Golden and yellow hues deepened the boundless masses from pink to purple revealing God’s glory.
