We had goat yoga at the White Post Farm and even cat yoga at the Kitty Cafe in Nottingham.
But now yoga fans can perfect their downward facing dog and reclining butterfly poses – in a field of alpacas.
Sarah Luerken is the first in the East Midlands to offer the unusual class that is one of a kind, but if it works it could become a regular event.
The Derbyshire farm is home to 12 alpacas, including Clooney, Curly Wurly and Cangaroo, who are trained to walk on a leash and are also rented out for weddings.
Sarah, who normally runs yoga classes at Stay Well Health in Chellaston, will be doing them outdoors on May 2nd in the grounds of Candleford Cottage in Muggington, about 40 minutes from Nottingham.
She believes the alpacas will have a calming effect during the session and will help promote the emotional health and wellbeing of the participants.
Sarah Luerken, yoga teacher, runs a class with alpacas
Sarah, 40, said, “Animals are known to have a calming effect and alpacas are perfect because they don’t make noise, are curious but rather shy, and the idea is for them to run around while the class continues.
“It’s about feeling grounded and at one with your natural surroundings. So when you are outdoors and surrounded by alpacas, you really have a chance to connect with nature.
“We don’t take it too seriously either, there is definitely an element of fun, although I am not ruling out making it a normal thing if it turns out to be a really positive, calm experience.”
Alpaca yoga follows the goat yoga trend that came to the UK from the US three years ago. Enthusiasts also claimed that the animals provide a calming atmosphere.
Sarah is trained in both Bikram Yoga and Ashtanga Yoga, which help to relax, build strength, increase flexibility and reduce stress.
She and her husband Tom run Stay Well Health, which offers yoga and acupuncture from Chellaston Medical Center.
Sarah added, “We specialize in offering a holistic approach to treatment and are constantly looking for new techniques that support the health and wellbeing of our clients.
“Our yoga community is quite adventurous and we hope to have a plant yoga class at Swarkestone Garden Center later this summer. I expect a lot of interest in the alpaca session. “