Yoga And Healing With Horses 5 Day Retreat

Where our own egos regularly allow fear and negativity to interfere with our ability to let go and form spiritual connections, horses possess an incalculable ability to function as conduits of connection. Where we analyse, where we try to explain, where we try to re-create, where we try to simply be, horses are already there , waiting for us to walk through the open door, to follow the path of spiritual oneness, to allow healing energy to come in.

Welcome to the "Healing with Horses" program at Alaya Retreat Centre, a transformative journey designed to foster deep connections between humans and horses. Over the course of five days, participants will engage in a unique blend of practices that promote personal healing, self-discovery, and emotional growth. Each day is thoughtfully crafted to include yoga, meditation, and hands-on experiences with our gentle equine companions, alongside individual Reiki healing sessions led by our experienced facilitator, Ellen.

Through guided workshops in the ABC breathing technique and animal communication, participants will learn to tune into their own bodies and the energies of the horses, cultivating mindfulness and presence. This program is not just about learning: it’s about healing and creating lasting bonds with the horses and with our personal soul mission. We invite you to embark on this journey of healing and connection, embracing the transformative power of the human-horse relationship in a serene and supportive environment.

• ELLEN

• OOLJEE

• GINEBRA

Ellen

Ellen obtained a Masters Degree in psychology, and a Doctorate in Information Systems at Harvard and MIT, and worked for many years in the academic and consulting world. In 2005, she started to focus on what life was really about, and educated herself in healing techniques. In 2008, she dedicated her time to build Alaya Retreat Centre. Ellen has worked with groups for over 20 years, and completed 2 years of the Four Cycles TM integrated healing program.

She also has her Masters in Reiki, which allows her to teach Reiki to other students and work as a reiki healer. In addition, she participated in a first level teacher training of Yin Yoga and has a diploma in sound therapy level I and II, to give healings with Quartz Bowls. In 2017, she became educated as a horse assisted coach and animal reiki healer. With this, her circle was completed and she is now healing all types of animals with 2 or 4 legs.

“The work that I do with the horses is a culmination of everything in my life leading to this work. This was also divinely guided by my horses showing me that this is what they are here to do. I am so grateful that with all of my experience that I could support them in this work, as they are equally supporting me in this work.”

Afternoon

• 3 PM : Arrival and Welcome Ceremony:

Guests arrive at Alaya Retreat Centre in the afternoon, settle in, and enjoy a guided tour of the grounds.

• Orientation and Intention Setting: Brief overview of the week’s activities, followed by a group intention-setting circle.

• Introduction to the Herd: A gentle meet-and-greet session with the horses. Participants are introduced to each horse’s unique qualities and learn the significance of the human-horse connection in healing.

Evening

• 6 PM - Evening Yoga Session: A gentle yoga session focused on grounding and releasing any travel stress, helping participants prepare for the retreat experience.

• Meditation with the Horses: A guided meditation session in the presence of the horses, allowing participants to connect energetically and begin establishing a calm, shared bond with the herd.

• Grounding Meditation and Reflection: Reflect on first impressions and set personal goals for the retreat.

Morning

• 9 AM - Morning Yoga Session: An energizing yoga practice to start the day, focusing on breathwork and gentle movement to connect with the natural rhythm of the retreat center.

• ABC Breathing Technique Workshop: Introduction to the ABC breathing technique to enhance self-awareness and mindfulness. Participants practice with horses, observing how breathing patterns affect their connection with the animals.

Afternoon

• Horse-Assisted Grounding Exercises and Hypnosis Session: Guided activities focusing on establishing mutual trust and grounding through non-verbal communication and gentle touch.

• Time slot for Individual Reiki Healing with Ellen: Each participant receives one one-on-one personal Reiki session during the retreat with Ellen, allowing for deep relaxation and energy alignment.

Evening

• 6 PM - Evening Yoga Session: A calming, restorative yoga practice that complements the day’s activities.

• Guided Reflection and Journaling: Participants note down their experiences with the ABC breathing technique and connection exercises.

Morning

• 9 AM - Morning Yoga Session: A mindful yoga session focusing on presence and relaxation, setting a peaceful tone for the day’s activities.

• Session with the Horses: Soul Contracts and meditative states: The role of horses

Afternoon

• Introduction to Reiki for Horses: A detailed introduction to Reiki energy healing, its benefits for horses, and how it fosters relaxation and healing. Participants learn basic hand positions and concepts of energy flow.

• Group Reiki with Horses: In pairs, participants practice gentle Reiki techniques with the horses under the guidance of an equine Reiki practitioner.

• Time slot for Individual Reiki Healing with Ellen: Scheduled individual Reiki sessions with Ellen, providing personal time for deeper healing and relaxation.

Evening

• 6 PM - Evening Yoga Session: A gentle flow that incorporates meditation, helping participants unwind and reflect on the day’s experiences.

• Silent Walk with Horses: Reflective evening walk alongside the herd, fostering a sense of peace and unity with nature.

Morning

• 9 AM - Morning Yoga Session: A centering yoga class that incorporates breathwork to support confidence and trust, preparing participants for their individual session with the horses.

• Equine-Assisted Trust Exercises: Trust-building activities with the horses, helping participants develop confidence and a better understanding of boundaries.

Afternoon

• Time slot for Individual Reiki Healing with Ellen: Each participant receives a one-on-one Reiki session with Ellen in the afternoon.

• Free Time for Reflection and Rest: A peaceful period allowing participants to rest and reflect, integrating their experiences and healing.

Evening

6 PM - Evening Yoga Session: A restorative yoga practice that supports relaxation and introspection
Group Sharing and Reflection: Sharing insights and breakthroughs in a supportive circle to help solidify personal growth.

Morning

• 9 AM - Morning Yoga Session: A gentle yoga session designed to integrate the week’s experiences, promoting a feeling of gratitude and closure.

• Farewell Connection Ritual: Final group session with the horses, integrating lessons learned. Participants have one-on-one time with their horse to say goodbye and thank them.

• Closing Ceremony and Gratitude Circle: Reflective gathering, expressing gratitude for the horses, facilitators, and group. Participants set intentions for integrating this experience into daily life.

Afternoon

• 3 PM Departure: Guests leave the retreat center with new insights, a deep sense of calm, and tools to practice mindfulness, communication, and healing in their everyday lives.