Yoga and Horsemanship is a week-long course at Il Cornacchino, a family-run equestrian centre and agriturismo at 800 metres in the Monte Penna Nature Reserve, southern Tuscany. Il Cornacchino is first and foremost a horse-riding centre. This course is one of its specific workshops, combining morning yoga with horsemanship on the ground. It is not a riding holiday: riding is not part of the course and can be added in the afternoons at extra cost.

The idea is simple. Yoga develops a deep awareness of body and breath, and that awareness is what clear, calm communication with a horse depends on. Each morning from Monday to Friday starts with yoga from 7:30 to 9:00 with Elisabetta Mancini. She has taught yoga to adults and children for over 25 years, and her approach draws on Taoism, Buddhism and Advaita Vedanta. After breakfast, Fabio leads a two-hour horsemanship session on the ground, working on communication, trust and leadership with the horses.

The week runs Saturday to Saturday. On Sunday morning there is a theory and interactive lesson on horses' basic needs and perception, body communication, managing emotions, leadership versus friendship, proprioception and breath control. On two evenings a week, Elisabetta and Fabio lead a session of relaxation, reflection and discussion.

Afternoons are free. You can take a two-hour ride, book a Natural Western Riding lesson or a 'Be Present' session with the horses (when available), all at extra cost, or simply walk in the woods. The course suits all levels, from complete beginners to experienced practitioners, and the exercises are simple and adaptable.

What's included

8 days / 7 nights accommodation (double room, or tepee or tent depending on the package); Full board; 5 morning yoga sessions with Elisabetta Mancini; 5 horsemanship sessions on the ground with Fabio (about 2 hours each); 1 theory lesson on horse communication and leadership; 2 evening sessions of relaxation, reflection and discussion

What's not included

Horse riding: two-hour rides, Natural Western Riding lessons and 'Be Present' sessions (optional, extra cost); Transfers; Personal travel insurance; Single room supplement (single rooms on request)