From December 5 to 10, 2024, and February 13 to 18, 2025, NIHI Sumba is offering a unique opportunity to participate in the new “Equine Intuitive Awareness Retreat,” an experience guided by Carol Sharpe, the original “NIHI horse whisperer.” This retreat is part of NIHI’s overarching “Wild Wellness” concept and is a key component of the new “Equine Connection” programs. As part of this initiative, NIHI Sumba becomes the first spa in the world to have horses located on-site 24/7 for wellness purposes, providing a setting for holistic equine healing.
Carol Sharpe’s work at NIHI Sumba, according to the resort, is rooted in her understanding of the natural world and the spiritual significance of horses. Her journey with NIHI began over a decade ago with a single pony, which has since evolved into a wellness initiative that integrates the healing presence of horses into the luxury spa environment. The retreat offers participants a chance to engage with these animals in a setting that honors the ancient traditions of Sumba while addressing the modern need for emotional and spiritual renewal.
The retreat itinerary has been designed to guide participants in connecting with their inner selves and the natural world through a variety of enriching activities that nurture a deeper bond with these horses. The program includes energy awareness sessions, meditation with horses, Reiki healing and equine yoga, alongside “Sunrise Awakening the Senses” sessions with the main herd on the hills behind NIHI and the opportunity to swim with horses or enjoy a sunset beach horseback ride. Participants will also engage in a Fire Light Sound Meditation and visit a local village to witness the work of the Sumba Horse Charity, where they can contribute by offering Reiki healing to ailing ponies.
Sumba is an island rich in cultural and spiritual traditions. The Marapu religion, practiced by the Sumbanese people, venerates ancestral spirits and natural forces, with horses playing a central role in their rituals and daily lives. Participants in the retreat will have the opportunity to immerse themselves in these traditions, gaining a deeper understanding of the island’s equine spiritual heritage.
A key component of the retreat is the exploration of the Pasola, an ancient Sumbanese ritual that includes traditional horseback riding, symbolizing the balance between life and death. This cultural immersion provides participants with a unique insight into the Sumbanese way of life and the deep significance of horses in their heritage.
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