Ohio farm launches otter yoga after one-off event skyrockets in popularity

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A farm in Ohio is offering a unique yoga experience: classes with otters! Westmeister Farms in Shelby now hosts ‘otter yoga,’ where participants can practice alongside Harbor and Cove, two adorable Asian small-clawed otters.

I’ve been going to these yoga sessions, and it’s amazing how many people are showing up – people are coming from all over the US and even from other countries! It all started with just a single class led by this instructor, Trish Sexstella, but it got so popular that it just kept going. She said she never expected it to blow up like this!

Trish has been teaching yoga for over a decade, and she’s noticed that her unique otter-themed classes frequently encourage people to try her other classes as well.

Otter yoga is in high demand

These otters were raised on a farm and are used to people, but you need to follow some rules when visiting. Harbor and Cove love to investigate things with their paws and mouths, so don’t bring anything with you that has zippers, screws, or could be easily grabbed – that means no jewelry, hair clips, or anything in your pockets!

These classes are designed to be relaxed and accommodating. Guests can participate fully in the poses, or simply relax and observe the otters as they play, explore, and rest. Harbor is generally more energetic, while Cove prefers to settle down and observe.

I’ve been hearing from people who went to these yoga sessions, and they’re saying it’s a really gentle way to get started – super approachable, even if you’ve never tried it before. It’s funny, some people said it reminded them of yoga they did as kids! Others were actually told to try it by their doctors or physical therapists. One person even described the whole experience as being happily ‘overwhelmed with cuteness’ – like a controlled dose of adorable! It sounds pretty relaxing, honestly.

Each class includes a trained professional who keeps the otters safe and oversees how people interact with them. According to Trish, the otters actually seem to have fun and will even pose for photos!

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2025-11-26 23:18