It has two aspects. One is therapeutic, but this workshop is not at all intended to be therapy. The other, what we will use, is Equine Assisted Learning. EAL is an experiential learning approach that uses horses, not as tools, but as active participants that help to facilitate the learning experience for the human participants. In the case of HSPs, we find that by examining equine behavior and how the horses may or may not react to us, we can better understand sensitivity and our strengths and challenges in social situations.

This method uses a team approach, bringing together humans (equine specialist, trained facilitator, mental health professional, horse care team), and horses (the Heart and Mind Equine herd of rescue horses) to assist participants in their own growth experience.

Through a collaborative, experiential learning process, participants use experience, reflection, generalization, and application to facilitate learning. The equine assisted model helps individuals to learn about themselves and others by participating in activities with the horses and then processing feelings, behaviors, and patterns, recognizing how, in this case, these may relate to life as an HSP.

Horses come with as many different personalities, attitudes, and sensitivities as HSPs. But because they are prey animals, their acute awareness of everything in their environment keeps them alive. Sensitivity is their greatest asset. They have to be extremely sensitive to each other’s shifting feelings and to everything around them. (Sound familiar?)

HSPs experience their own sensitivity in a new and deeper way by seeing it in another species, where it is a distinct advantage. We might also observe circumstances in which, for horse or human, sensitivity becomes a problem.

Interacting with horses provides the opportunity to gain fresh, honest awareness of our truths. They give us the chance to learn what is profoundly difficult to learn from our human relationships because, unlike most people, horses have no agenda, and they don’t care about our power, position, title, degree, or salary.

You will in effect become part of a herd of horses and humans for a weekend, where each of our unique sensitivities and histories will be better appreciated in relation to the others.

Another reason for horses: They are powerful, beautiful animals. They carry archetypal meanings, from conquest, brute strength, and even terror, to gentle, loving companionship, and trustworthy partnership. We meet many HSPs who especially appreciate horses at this level. At the same time, horses are social, love to play, and are always completely honest in their reactions and behavior, things HSPs can always learn more about.

On another note, you will also be in an HSP focused environment for the weekend, which is always empowering. Inevitably you will find that you are working on issues common to other HSPs, such as confidence, leadership, boundaries, teamwork, and inner compassion. HSPs in our retreats report deepening their toolbox for clear communication and patience. You might also navigate some anxiety about whether you could be hurt or are “doing it right.”

The HSPs and Horses format involves individuals and groups working on the ground with horses – not riding.

You do not have to have any experience around horses, but some appreciation of them would help.

You will be in a pen with up to six of them, so you can’t be petrified by them, but you do not even absolutely have to touch them. The focus is on your own observations of them and your experience or the group’s experience interacting with them, at whatever distance feels right to you. We’ll do some activities and play a bit. It will not be hard.What is special about the Heart and Mind Equine herd of horses?Our horses are rescue horses who have come to us with a history of not fitting in. As a result of their unique temperaments, they were often mistreated in their pasts. They aren’t horses who just tucked it in and did whatever they were told, even when they were exposed to force or mistreatment. As a result, they were thrown away or neglected. Eventually some of these “square peg” horses came to find a home in Alane’s horse rescue. They are on parallel paths of growth and recovery with all of our clients, staff, and volunteers. Recently, the horse rescue became a nonprofit and 25% of retreat proceeds will go to support the rescue horses. 

Click the 'Sign Up Now' button at the top of this page. After registration, you will receive an additional link to complete a questionnaire and sign some paperwork. If you prefer to save on the credit card fees (over $100), you can email us to arrange to pay by check, Zelle, or Venmo.

Based on our experience, we recommend you register sooner than later, as the retreat generally sells out.

If, for some reason, we have to cancel the course, you will receive a full refund.

This is important to know: If you have to cancel at the last minute, you will receive a refund (less $150 processing fee) only if we are able to fill your spot. That would require our having a waiting list, which is likely to happen.

But the sooner you let us know, the more likely we would be able to fill your place. Otherwise, with such a small retreat we obviously cannot refund any of your payment.

HSPs and Horses 2024 will be held at Heart and Mind Equine (in the small village of Woodacre, CA) in the San Francisco Bay Area. 

Heart and Mind Equine is about 40 minutes from both the SF and Oakland airports. Most people who fly in will rent a car, and we are happy to connect you to share car expenses if you  would like. We also know a local Uber driver who can be scheduled for airport pick up. There are local accommodations in the form of chain hotels in San Rafael, local inns, camping in the state park, and Airbnb/VRBO rentals near the barn. There is space for a couple small campers (with electrical) for a small fee.

The group will start with an observation activity, beginning to get to know the horses and each other. Next, and at other times throughout the weekend, we will check in with a group discussion of the personal experiences and observations, focusing on the here and now of the Equine Assisted Learning experience.

We will proceed to various activities with the horses, and plenty of breaks. During part of meal breaks you are free to eat with others or wander off to eat alone and reflect. Although we will be in discussion throughout the retreat and questions are always welcome, there will be an optional Q&A with the facilitators. The weekend will offer many opportunities to interact with the horses, usually focused on what has come up within this particular group.

By the way, your contact with facilitators will be a quiet one. You can ask us questions at lunch if you like, but none of us will “lecture,” only comment or ask questions at times when it seems helpful.

What should I bring?

A water bottle and layers of clothing for variations in temperature during the day. If the forecast is for rain, you’ll need a rain jacket and pants, plus waterproof footwear. We will provide comfy chairs and cushions, but you are welcome to bring your own if you like.

What about food?

Snacks (lots of them) and meals will be catered, with gluten-free and vegetarian options. Light dinner on Friday, breakfasts and lunches on Saturday and Sunday.

What if it rains?

Most of our weekend will be spent outdoors in nature. If a light rain is predicted without cold temperatures, we will proceed. Just wear rain gear but leave umbrellas in the car. If the weather is too inclement, we will hold the workshop on a rain date or use an indoor arena part of the time.