Goat Yoga Returns to Grow Wellness Therapy in Ridgefield: Combining Exercise and Animal Therapy for a Unique Experience
Yoga has been a popular form of exercise and stress relief for centuries, and in recent years, it has seen a surge in popularity in the Western world. At the same time, animal-assisted therapy has gained recognition as a valuable tool for improving mental and physical health. Now, the two are being combined in a unique and fun way: goat yoga. In this article, we’ll explore the return of goat yoga to Grow Wellness Therapy in Ridgefield, and the benefits of this innovative approach to exercise and animal therapy.
What is Goat Yoga?
Goat yoga is a form of yoga that involves practicing yoga poses while interacting with goats. The goats are free to roam around the yoga space, and participants may find themselves with a goat on their back or nuzzling their ear during a pose. The concept originated in Oregon in 2016 and quickly became a popular trend across the country.
While goat yoga may seem like a novelty, it offers a unique combination of exercise and animal therapy. Yoga has been shown to have numerous physical and mental health benefits, including improved flexibility, strength, and stress reduction. Meanwhile, animal-assisted therapy has been shown to improve mood, reduce anxiety, and lower blood pressure.
The Benefits of Goat Yoga
Goat yoga offers several benefits beyond those of traditional yoga. The presence of the goats adds an element of playfulness and joy to the practice, which can help reduce stress and improve mood. In addition, interacting with animals has been shown to release oxytocin, a hormone that promotes feelings of bonding and relaxation.
Goat yoga also offers a unique opportunity for animal-assisted therapy. The presence of the goats can help participants feel more relaxed and present in the moment, which can enhance the benefits of the yoga practice. In addition, interacting with the goats can help promote a sense of connection with nature and the environment, which can have a positive impact on mental health and wellbeing.
The Return of Goat Yoga to Grow Wellness Therapy
Grow Wellness Therapy is a mental health clinic in Ridgefield, Connecticut, that offers a range of services, including animal-assisted therapy. In 2018, they began offering goat yoga classes as a way to combine yoga and animal therapy for a unique and beneficial experience.
After a hiatus due to the COVID-19 pandemic, Grow Wellness Therapy has announced the return of goat yoga to their services. The classes will be held on their outdoor deck and will be limited to 12 participants to ensure social distancing.
Participants can expect a fun and playful yoga experience, with the added benefit of interacting with the goats. The goats are friendly and social, and their presence can help participants feel more relaxed and present in the moment.
Conclusion
Goat yoga offers a unique and fun way to combine exercise and animal therapy for a beneficial and enjoyable experience. The presence of the goats can add an element of playfulness and joy to the practice, while also promoting relaxation and a sense of connection with nature.
The return of goat yoga to Grow Wellness Therapy in Ridgefield offers a great opportunity for those in the area to try this innovative approach to yoga and animal-assisted therapy. Whether you’re a seasoned yogi or just looking for a fun and unique way to exercise and reduce stress, goat yoga is a great option to consider.
