6 Horse Therapy Retreats That Offer Meditation, Yoga and More

This is the year of the horse. Literally. According to the Chinese zodiac, 2026 is the year of the fire horse (an astrological event that takes place only every 60 years).

Research has shown that the therapeutic use of horseback riding can improve balance and coordination in people who have neurological conditions like cerebral palsy, and lessen the symptoms for veterans suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder. And even for those who are just ordinarily stressed, being around horses can be calming and restorative — part of a somatic healing approach, which focuses on how the body holds on to emotions. Around the world, resorts and outfitters are highlighting their human-meets-horse offerings, with programs that go beyond trail rides. Here are six.

NIHI SUMBA

Sumba, Indonesia

NIHI Sumba, on the Indonesian island of Sumba, is on every horse lover’s wish list for its equine therapy and for its organic integration of horses.

“Even those who never ride often leave saying that simply being in the presence of the herd became one of the most memorable parts of their stay,” said Carol Sharpe, the resort’s “horse whisperer.” Besides riding, the resort offers numerous activities that involve horses, including swimming, yoga, guided meditations, reiki, gentle grooming and sunrise beach walks with the herd, which wanders freely around the resort.