An Ohio farm has become an unlikely destination for animal-themed yoga. Westmeister Farms in Shelby is now hosting otter yoga, a class built around two small-clawed Asian otters named Harbor and Cove.
The sessions have drawn visitors from across the United States and even overseas, with classes that are led by Meta Soul Yoga instructor Trish Sexstella, who says the idea started as a one-off event before demand surged.
Trish has taught yoga for more than ten years and says otter sessions often bring newcomers into her regular classes.
Otter yoga is in high demand
The otters were raised on the farm and are comfortable around visitors, but there are strict rules: No jewelry, hair clips, or items in pockets, because Harbor and Cove will unzip, unscrew, and swipe anything they can reach.
The classes are designed to be flexible. Guests can follow full poses or simply sit as the otters climb, explore, or curl up for a nap. Harbor is the more active of the two, while Cove tends to settle in and watch.
Attendees say the sessions offer an easy entry point into yoga. Some came because of childhood memories. Others joined after being told to try yoga for physical therapy. One participant described the goal as being “fully assaulted by cuteness” in a controlled setting.
A trained handler is present at every class to protect the otters and manage interactions. Trish says the animals enjoy the stimulation and even strike poses of their own.
