A joint local venture between a Bawdsey farm and a yoga teacher has enjoyed great success. Skylark Farm and Diana Malone, otherwise known as DM Yoga, have joined forces to create a unique yoga experience in the Suffolk countryside. Their first goat yoga class took place at the beginning of July at Bawdsey and was hailed a resounding success by all who took part including the six young goats who caused quite a stir.

The class had sold out within a week of being announced, with people travelling from as far afield as Bedfordshire for the experience. Yoga teacher Diana was stunned by the number of people who registered for the event; “We had so many we had to start turning people away,” she says.

Eager yoga enthusiasts and animal lovers enjoyed perfect weather for the first class in the peaceful country location. Diana led the group through a relaxing hour-long session, which was suitable for all ages and abilities. Many participants took breaks to pet the goats. It was the first time the goats had been close to so many people at any one time and they were spoilt for choice when choosing someone to stroke and cuddle them. Emma Aldous, of Skylark Farm, scattered food for the animals throughout the group, leading to some “adorable encounters” as the goats sought out their treats.

“Goats are naturally social, intelligent and often affectionate,” says Emma. “They don’t care that you are trying to do yoga. They just want to be near you. You can’t help but feel relaxed in their presence. Combining animal therapy and yoga is an amazing double act because it provides both the good-natured animals as well as soothing breath and movement. And being outdoors in such a lovely spot is just the icing on the cake.”

Diana adds; “At least 70% of the class were people new to yoga. It isn’t really about getting a great workout, it’s more about laughter and spending time with the goats.”

Both women say they intend to hold more goat yoga throughout the summer months.

For more details go to: www.dmyoga.co.uk