I have been dreaming about holding a dressage retreat for quite some time now. My goal is to provide for riders and trainers a whole holistic approach on how to communicate better with our equine partners.

When Mary Phelps introduced me to Melissa Vanacore of Longfield Stable at the USDF convention in Dec of 2007 the dream started to take shape to become a reality.  Our first Retreat being hosted at Palmetto Bluff Resort and Longfield Stable in November 2008. Never in my wildest dreams did I expect as many responses as I received, it is truly overwhelming.  I thank all of you who have shown great interest and enthusiasm and support for the Retreat.  My initial thinking was to have the Retreat be a very intimate gathering. This was to ensure that each participant gets the most out of all the training and coaching sessions. The magnitude of responses would not have allowed for me to “keep it small” and have personalized attention.  As a result I have chosen to re-schedule the date from Nov. 13-16 2008 to the fall of 2009 to allow for even more planning to ensure that this is all truly amazing memorable experience for all guests.

My plan is to schedule a series of retreats that can accommodate more participants. Retreats will be held in various locations and will have a different focus and different pricing structure so we can really personalize every participants needs.

I feel the whole mind, body; spirit approach truly makes the rider and should be accessible to everyone. My goal from these retreats is to ensure every guest leaves feeling truly rejuvenated and excited about gaining an ever deeper bond with their equine partner.

Join us for the unique opportunity of a Mind, Body, and Spirit experience. Immerse yourself in four days of intensive training and pampering. Situated in the picturesque South Carolina Lowcountry along the beautiful May River, The Inn at Palmetto Bluff Resort is the embodiment of all that is graceful, comforting and romantic about South Carolina. Our peaceful retreat, which pampers you with luxurious resort lodging accommodations, distinctive cuisine and stimulating adventure, is the newest addition to world-renowned Auberge Resorts. The state of the art Longfield Stables at Palmetto Bluff ensure that your horse will experience the same luxuries provided for his human partner at this exciting retreat.

I have taken chapters from my book A Gymnastic Riding System using Mind, Body & Spirit…and brought them to life for you to experience at the Dressage Retreat. We are teaming up with well known Sports Performance Coach, Laura King; Certified Equilates instructor, Shari Hart and nutritionist Val Morton to create a one-of-a-kind three day retreat for the dressage rider.

The retreat experience will allow you to combine intensive dressage training with concentrated nurturing of your mind, body and spirit. Experience focused training with your own horse or, audit the private lessons. In between sessions enjoy luxurious spa treatments at the renowned Spa at Palmetto Bluff; increase your strength, flexibility and body awareness through Equilates sessions; learn how to improve your performance and self confidence with our amazing Sports Performance coach; or develop a nutrition plan with our nutritionist to help you reach your personal goals. Immerse yourself in top quality dressage training as I take you through the Classic Training Pyramid working privately with you and your horse to attain all your riding goals. Come by yourself or bring your family along to enjoy the many amenities and activities that The Inn at Palmetto Bluff Resort has to offer. This is a truly unique experience that you do not want to miss!!

Betsy Steiner