If you are like me, exercise is an important part of your life, but can sometimes get dull and boring. Did you know you can liven up your routine with goats right here in the desert? Try goat yoga in Indio or hike with yogi goats in Pioneertown. Read on to find out more.

What is Goat Yoga?

Goat yoga is exactly what it sounds like. It is yoga with baby goats. An instructor takes you through classic yoga poses while adorable goats roam throughout the group. Don’t be surprised if one jumps on your back during a plank pose. While it might not be the most strenuous yoga class you have ever taken, it will definitely be the most fun.

Why Do Yoga with Goats?

You might be wondering why anyone would do goat yoga. Scientific research has proven that human interaction with animals has many benefits. It can reduce stress and help ease symptoms of depression and anxiety.

Another perk is laughter. Doing yoga with goats brings on the giggles. When you laugh, you increase your intake of air which stimulates your lungs, heart and muscles. Your brain releases more endorphins which improve mood and help reduce stress and tension. Laughter can even cause your body to produce natural painkillers which can alleviate pain. Laughter is so good for us both physically and mentally.

Giggling With Goats

So, where can you go to experience goat yoga here in the Coachella Valley? The answer is Giggling with Goats in Indio, CA. Currently offering baby goat yoga classes approximately twice per month, mediation with goats and art classes are coming soon. Also on their schedule is Bing-goAT Sunday. Who wouldn’t want to play Bingo with goats? I most certainly do.

You can book the farm for individual sessions or private parties. Gather Yoga + Wellness in La Quinta is hosting field trips to Giggling with Goats on select dates for group classes. Find out more on their website.

What to Expect at Goat Yoga?

The baby goats are cute and cuddly and surprisingly clean. Be prepared though that nature may take over, and a goat may relieve themselves during class. Good news is they are vegetarians, so their droppings do not smell and are easy to clean up.

Goats like to chew things, so you may not want to wear your brand new Lululemon workout gear. Plus, it is a farm, so you may get a little bit dirty. Keep jewelry to a minimum. Make sure to completely cover your back to avoid scratches when the goats climb up on you. There are spaces to leave belongings away from the goats. Yoga mats are available to rent or bring your own.

Let’s Goat Hike

If yoga is not your thing, maybe a goat hike up in the beautiful mountains of Pioneertown is more to your liking. Let’s Goat Hike is one of my favorite animal adventures. The experience starts at the Yogi Goat Farm & Retreat with your host, Emmanuel. The farm is located on multiple acres about 20 miles northwest of Joshua Tree.

Emmanuel is a yoga instructor and massage therapist who came to the United States from France over 20 years ago. He acquired the land for the farm and started with the goats and his dogs. His farm turned into a sanctuary with the addition of a horse, donkey, pig, several turkeys, peacocks and other animals in need of a home and care.

After spending time with the animals on the farm, the hike begins and covers approximately three miles. Emmanuel is well versed on the local desert fauna and points out endangered species and edible plants. Breaks are taken along the way on large boulders. Here, you can pet the goats and take in some breathtaking scenery. Watching the goats play and frolic is magical.

What You Need to Know About Let’s Goat Hike

Let’s Goat Hike is an Airbnb experience and scores 4.99 out of 5 stars. Click here for the link. Hikes are in the afternoon and end around sunset. Wear long pants and closed toe shoes suitable for hiking. From October to April, it can get quite chilly, so be sure to dress warmly in layers. Sunscreen is a must as is plenty of water. Cell phone service is spotty in the area, so make sure to download Emmanuel’s driving instructions before you leave. The farm is off the beaten path.

Whether you decide to do goat yoga or take a hike with the yogi goats, you are sure to be charmed by these loving and docile animals. Do you love goats? Tell me your goat stories in the comment section below.