Jodi Streahle

For The Daily Journal

MILLVILLE - If you think yoga is too serious, you might be doing it wrong.

That was the consensus during the Barnyard Yoga class at Pampered Pup Luxury Pet Resort on Saturday when about 20 participants came out to practice yoga with goats. That’s right — goats.

As instructor Tracey Morgado of Vineland led the class in in various yoga poses, goats weaved through the room stopping for adoration and snacks. Participants were quickly distracted as they reached out to touch the goats and snap as many photos as they could.

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The class maintains a very relaxed tone, and everyone is encouraged to take time with the goats as they pass by, said Morgado. “It adds a different dimension of fun to the class. Yoga classes can be so serious. The goats add a little bit of fun and laughter,” she said.

While the goats added to the relaxation experienced when practicing yoga, the class wasn’t all about the goats; there was actual yoga going on.

The class offered the perfect setting for newcomers to try yoga without the embarrassment they may have felt in a traditional class, said Elaine Malloy of Galloway Township. The goats provided the perfect distraction, so she didn’t feel like anyone was watching her as she learned the movements. “It was more comfortable,” she said.

“I loved it. I got a good stretch and it was nice not to feel so serious,” said Candace Kuhns of Egg Harbor Township.

“I thought it was the coolest thing,” said Lu Muller of Ventnor. “The goats are so cute, and I found a new place to bring my dog.”

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The property was open for tours, and class members were invited to feed precut apples and carrots to the other animals on the farm. The 60-acre property features horse pastures, trails and a variety of farm animals such as horses, chickens, alpacas, goats and more.

Classes began in February, and attendance continues to grow with each session. The next class is 1 p.m. Saturday, March 25, and the classes will continue through the spring at Pampered Pup Luxury Pet Resort at 2709 Mays Landing Road. Once the weather breaks, Barnyard Yoga may be held outside. Cost is $30 and includes refreshments after the class. Call (856) 327-3880.