Goat Yoga

at Hancock Shaker Village

Don’t let life get your goat. Instead, head to Hancock Shaker Village for its unexpectedly popular series of Goat Yoga sessions. The one-hour sessions with Kripalu-trained instructor, Alison Walter, will be offered Saturdays, September 9th and 16th and Sunday, September 24th.

The class fee includes free admission to Hancock Shaker Village, a 20-building historic Shaker village set on 750 acres.

Walter teaches yoga, meditation and mindfulness to children and adults in New York City and the Berkshires but had never taught a Goat Yoga class until this spring. The ancient disciplines of yoga can bring physical, mental and spiritual benefit but when goats, those highly irreverent creatures, are added to the mix, smiles must be included among the advantages derived.

Goat yoga is a trend that began late last year and appears to be sweeping the country. According to www.goatyoga.net, the official website of goat yoga, a goat yoga class "is about disconnecting from day to day stress and focusing on happy vibes."

Goat Yoga was initiated at Hancock Shaker Village as part of an effort to raise $90,000 needed to restore the two large silos on the grounds. The silos, built in 1908, were damaged in a winter storm last year.

Those wishing to participate should bring a mat, towel and an open mind, according to the Village. Participants are also advised that goats are intrigued by hair and pulling long hair back is advised.