Fairfield University students had a “baaa-rilliant” time this past Wednesday, September 18, when the campus hosted a special Goat Yoga session on the Library Lawn.
The event was a collaboration with Bradley Mountain Farm located in Southington, CT.
This event wasn’t your typical yoga class. It was a goat-to-experience. The name is just what it sounds like–yoga with goats— led by yoga instructor Haley Stopper.
This class drew in a big crowd excited to stretch, relax and most importantly, get up close and personal with the farm’s adorable goats.
As the students flowed through yoga poses, they were surrounded by the five goats that served as companions to the class of students. Whether they were in downward dog or child’s pose, it was hard not to smile with a goat nuzzling up and even hopping onto their backs.
Interestingly, studies have shown that participating in goat yoga- or any form of animal therapy- can enhance relaxation and stress levels. The presence of animals can create a sense of joy and connection.
“It was a fun break to have in the middle of the week and it was nice to have something different than the usual Rec Plex classes,” said Chloe Flanagan ‘28.
The animals wandered freely among the students, occasionally lending a hoof to assist with a pose or simply photobombing. The yoga instructors helped each student get up close with a goat, ensuring everyone got a chance to be a sturdy playground for these playful animals.
“It was a lot of fun and a great way to destress in the middle of the week. We definitely focused more on the goats than the yoga but if the school put this on again, I’d definitely go!” said Julia Paul ‘26.
For many students, the event was their first experience practicing yoga while surrounded by animals, and as the attendees testified, it turns out that goats make perfect yoga partners.
