The Lucky Orphans Horse Rescue, in Dover Plains will host, Yoga with the Horses, on August 14, from 11 a.m. to 12 p.m. The class will be held in an outdoor paddock, joined by two rescue horses. The farm is also open from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. for the public.

Participants need to know the animals may approach and brush up against them. There will not be, however, any standing or practicing yoga positions on the horses themselves.

According to Connie Barthen, an AFAA certified fitness instructor, horse yoga is therapeutic for the practitioners, and for the horses. Barthen says she fell in love with the horses after being asked to teach on the Lucky Orphans Farm. “I enjoy bringing awareness to how important animals are,” she says.

The class is one of several programs available at the rescue sanctuary, whose mission is to help people connect with horses. “We are committed to the life-long well-being of our horses and believe in the healing bond between humans and horses,” says Faith Shultz, Executive Assistant at Lucky Orphans.

The cost is $40 per person. Participants are asked to bring a yoga mat and water, and are encouraged to visit the herd before and/or after their session.

Location: Lucky Orphans Horse Rescue, 2699 RT 22, Dover Plains, NY. For more information, contact Connie Barthen at [email protected] or visit LuckyOrphans.org.