Carol Sharpe, horse whisperer at Nihi Sumba in Indonesia, discusses the use of these majestic animals in the resort’s ground-breaking wellness experiences. Carol Sharpe, horse whisperer at Nihi Sumba in Indonesia, discusses the use of these majestic animals in the resort’s ground-breaking wellness experiences.

Carol Sharpe, horse whisperer at Nihi Sumba in Indonesia, discusses the use of these majestic animals in the resort’s ground-breaking wellness experiences.

Fifty minutes off the coast of Bali lies NIHI Sumba, a resort celebrated for its intimacy and seclusion and home to the first spa in the world to have horses located on-site 24/7 for holistic healing purposes. The retreat’s equine programme is the brainchild of resident horse whisperer Carol Sharpe.

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You were the original horse whisperer of Nihi and were responsible for rescuing most of the original herd. How have the stables evolved since then?

The stables have grown tremendously over the past decade. We started with a sole rescue pony and grew to six horses offering Sunset Beach rides in the first year. Today, the stables are home to 28 horses and foals, meaning guests can now enjoy a wider range of equestrian experiences, including trail rides, swimming with the horses, Kids Pony Care, equine yoga, and meditation. I was on-site 24/7 in the beginning, but I have now handed over the reins (excuse the pun!) to the amazing Evelien Akerboom.

Carol Sharpe, horse whisperer at Nihi Sumba in Indonesia, discusses the use of these majestic animals in the resort’s ground-breaking wellness experiences.

Do you still have original staff members on-site, and can you share what the stables have contributed to the local community?

Yes, we still have original staff members working at the stables. All of our team come from local villages where formal education opportunities are limited. Working at the stables has allowed them to develop modern horsemanship skills, learn English, and gain valuable hospitality experience at an international level. Most now have basic skills in everything from horse dentistry to veterinary skills to farrier work.

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What new retreats has Nihi introduced that build on this profound connection between humans and horses?

We’re incredibly excited about our new Equine Intuitive Awareness Retreat, taking place February 13th-18th, 2025. This retreat offers participants a transformative journey, connecting them with their inner selves through activities such as equine yoga, Reiki healing, and meditation with the horses. Guests will also join a Sunrise Awakening the Senses session with the herd, explore Sumba’s cultural heritage, swim with the horses or enjoy a sunset beach ride.

Carol Sharpe, horse whisperer at Nihi Sumba in Indonesia, discusses the use of these majestic animals in the resort’s ground-breaking wellness experiences.

Sumba’s rich traditions, such as the Marapu religion and the Pasola horseback ritual, are woven into this experience, offering guests a deep immersion in the island’s spiritual and equine heritage. Additionally, we’re hosting a retreat in May 2025 with Ashleigh Sanderson, focusing on equine biomechanics and classical training techniques to harmonise the horse and rider’s movements.

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Can you explain how the Wild Wellness spa integrates equine therapy, and what programmes are offered?

This new initiative is a first of its kind. The spa integrates horses into wellness sessions, offering programmes that deepen the human-horse connection. Spread over five days, the sessions include Equi-Essence, which focuses on understanding the sensory world of the Nihi herd; Equi-Seen, which explores trust and vulnerability through the lens of the human nervous system; Equi-Tuned, which combines horses, sound, and meditation to amplify well-being; and Equi-Feel, which builds self-awareness and leadership through physical and emotional connection.

Carol Sharpe, horse whisperer at Nihi Sumba in Indonesia, discusses the use of these majestic animals in the resort’s ground-breaking wellness experiences.

These sessions are led by carefully chosen horses that are not part of the guest riding program, giving older or ailing horses a purposeful life as wellness therapists.

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What are your hopes for the Equine Intuitive Awareness Retreat and the future of Sandalwood Stables?

This retreat is about redefining the relationship between humans and nature. It’s an opportunity for participants to explore the profound healing and spiritual connection between humans and horses. Sandalwood Stables will continue to lead the way in innovative equestrian offerings, expanding our wellness programs and treks to celebrate the unique equine culture of Sumba.

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