19/07/2026
Somebody asked me a question about this yesterday, and I had a little 'eek!' moment... But grateful for the chance to clarify what's on offer.
Yes, this is yoga in a setting where there are some very happy and mellow horses. They kindly let us share their home.
Sometimes they're curious and come up to say hello, sometimes they ignore us completely - and when they do, that's 100% fine. Lovely Mandy Kelly is always around to check that we're all getting on in harmony and nobody (horse or human) is feeling uncomfortable or invading each others' space. After the yoga, there's the option to find out a bit more about the gorgeous herd that call Random's Retreat CIC home - but it's totally optional.
What I hadn't realised - and now do - is that the offer might read like when people offer kitten yoga or puppy yoga or baby goat yoga - (yes, that's actually a thing) - where the animals kind of become 'props' to the practice. And that made me feel sad.
So in case that's how it's been reading to you... No, we don't 'use' the horses in our yoga. We offer them respect and gratitude. We don't change our practice - we hold that with respect too - just in a beautiful outdoor space that we're super-lucky to have on our doorstep. The horses might drift by (like the swifts and the swallows and the sheep and the chickens and the ducks) But only if they choose.
So gratitude for the question being asked, because I hadn't even thought of it like that.
And apologies for the long post! ~ Debbie x 🧡🙏
🧘♀️ Soften into Sunday – Yoga in Nature 🐴
Treat yourself to a peaceful morning of relaxation and reconnection at Random's Retreat.
Surrounded by breathtaking views of the Derwent Valley and the calming presence of our holistic herd, this gentle yoga session with Debbie from Derwentside Yoga is the perfect opportunity to slow down, breathe deeply, and embrace the tranquillity of nature.
Suitable for beginners, the session includes gentle yoga, breathwork, and meditation, leaving you feeling refreshed, grounded, and ready for the week ahead.
📅 Sunday 9th August
🕙 10.00am – 12.00pm
Bring your yoga mat or blanket, and let nature do the rest. 💚
Spaces are limited, so book early to avoid disappointment.
https://bookwhen.com/randomsretreat
