Breathe In & Bleat Out — Goat Yoga

Overview

That soothing feeling that sweeps over you when you spy a cute canine, spend too much time watching internet cat videos or even just spot a picture of a newborn animal — that's the feeling at the heart of these out-of-the-ordinary wellness sessions. Sure, you've been to kitten yoga and puppy pilates, and they're both great. But we're guessing that you mightn't have tried meditating with baby goats or getting mindful with soft, cuddly lambs.

After launching in Brisbane and on the Gold Coast a few years back, Karmably's cuddly classes are now a regular fixture. During them, you'll attempt to find inner bliss while surrounded by rescued baby farm animals. In short, it's the best way to de-stress when life's got your goat. After all, who can remain overwhelmed, exhausted or annoyed when they're sharing their chill-out session with actual goats?

The classes focus on relaxation techniques; the session's name, Breathe In & Bleat Out, gives you an idea of just what's in store. Those heading along can expect three parts to the session: mindful stretching, meditation and snuggling the four-legged participants.

If you're wondering where the concept came from, it was inspired by organiser Berenice Tan's own experiences trying to find something other than the usual mindfulness classes within Australia. Tan began to research animal therapy and, after learning of the benefits (and realising that everyone loves cute critters), her sessions with goats, lambs and even piglets were born.

The bliss goes both ways, too — with Karmably not only helping humans to relax in a fun manner, but also assisting animals in need. Tan works with sanctuaries, rescue centres, and organisations such as Harmony Hooves Healing Hearts and ABC Animal Farm. They both raise baby creatures who have either been rejected by their mothers or lost their mums in other ways, and hand-rear them until they can be adopted out as pets to families who live on suitable properties.

The next Brisbane sessions take place on Saturdays — on February 19, April 16 and June 18 at Elements Collective in Fortitude Valley, with session times at 8.30am, 10am and 11.30am. Tickets usually get snapped up fast, so you'll want to book yours ASAP.

Updated March 4.