During this retreat, in the serene beauty of the Hudson Valley, you’ll experience mindfulness practices and creative prompts, supported by the grounding of horses, that help us reconnect, cultivate compassion for ourselves and others, and build the courage to step fully into our lives with power and authenticity.

The 13 Hands herd contains a diverse array of over 200 equines. There are minis, horses of all sizes and breeds, draft horses, mules, and donkeys. Horses that have been abandoned, abused, or neglected. Some are previously unhandled mustangs brought here after wild horse roundups. And others have been born on the farm to mares pregnant at the time of rescue, and have only known love and safety. With the support of this incredible herd, you’ll experience connection and communication using your body language, breath, energy and intention. You’ll create relationships beyond words and without judgement.

While the specific practices and activities will be customized to the participants (based on both a pre-retreat survey and the experience as it unfolds) some of the things you can expect to learn with the horses include:

• Exchanging greetings and communicating your intentions
• Asking for space without creating fear or disconnection
• Supporting a horse that is uncomfortable or scared
• Inviting a horse to walk and/or rest with you
• Grooming a horse to create comfort and connection
• Moving quietly through the herd without disturbing the horses

We’ll spend our time away from the herd expanding on our discoveries and setting intentions for the next day, through a combination of:

• Mindbody practices to support tapping into your authentic voice
• Generative creative prompts
• Group discussions
• Opportunities to share work

During free time you’ll have the option to explore the natural beauty of the 120 acre farm, including visiting with the other animals such as mini horses, donkeys and mules, goats, dogs, cats, rabbits and more, hiking, relaxing in the apple orchard, reading in front of the fire, wandering with a borrowed art kit, magnificent stargazing, and much more.

Together we’ll explore a way of being in the world that is deeply healing, that connects us to our own body and breath, and to each other. And we’ll be supporting the healing journey of the 13 Hands horses as well. You’ll head home with a greater awareness of the energy you want to bring into your daily life, and your relationships, and with practices to support creating it (with or without horses).

*This non-riding retreat is appropriate for anyone! No experience necessary. All horse interaction will be from the ground, tailored to the individual participant’s experience and comfort level.

13 Hands Equine Rescue is a not for profit organization that rescues neglected, abused and abandoned horses, other equines such as mules and donkeys, and occasionally goats, dogs, rabbits, cats and other animals that needs a soft places to land.

Started in 2015 by Marylou Tortorello in Westchester NY, and moving to their permanent home in Clinton Corners in 2020, 13 Hands has quickly become a well respected and successful rescue, helping hundreds of horses heal, find their purpose, and find their forever home. For some, 13 Hands becomes their forever home as they join the therapy and wellness programs offered on the farm.

The rescue process is a complex one, from health assessment to quarantine to recovery and healing, to placement with a new family, the path of each rescue is unique. 13 Hands is fortunate to have an extraordinary staff, dedicated to the physical and mental health of the animals. Volunteer support is also an important part of keeping the rescue and its residents thriving.

With 200+ horses to care for, 13 Hands relies on donations, fundraising, and community events for support. A portion of all Mindfulness with Horses retreat proceeds goes to the rescue. Learn More About 13 Hands

We are fortunate to have five spaces available in a beautiful home on-site at 13 Hands Equine Rescue. We call this the Tuscan Way house, and it’s just next to a paddock of mustangs, with a heart shaped pond visible from the front porch.

The house is truly special, with views of the hills and the horses from every window, a large two story living room with a stone fireplace, comfortable bedrooms, porches with Adirondack chairs, and a cozy reading room. Plus, no driving or cooking!

Participants who choose on-site accommodations will receive three meals per day, prepared with love, and served family style. We’ll be providing coffee, tea and snacks throughout the day.

Commuter spaces are available for folks who live locally or would like to stay elsewhere in the Rhinebeck area. Commuters receive dinner on Thursday evening and lunch each day, as well as coffee, tea and snacks.