The Spring confidence Retreat at Horse Haven Ranch is more than just a training clinic; it is a profound shift in perspective for any horse owner. If you have spent years believing that horsemanship is a battle for dominance, Michael Gascon’s approach will be a revelation.
A New Philosophy of Connection
Michael’s teaching centers on the idea that training shouldn't be a fight for control. Instead, he demonstrates that true horsemanship comes from the miraculous clarity of a well-timed cue. This clarity transforms the horse-human relationship from one of friction to one of mutual understanding.
The Respect Series: This foundational program is the heart of the retreat. It moves away from "dominance" and toward establishing a "bubble" of mutual respect. By mastering these ground-level cues, you learn to communicate with such precision that the horse chooses to look to you for leadership rather than reacting in fear.
The Mirror Effect: The retreat emphasizes that horses hold up a quiet mirror to our own hearts. Your energy, patience, and clarity (or lack thereof) are reflected directly back to you by these animals, making the experience as much about personal growth as it is about equine education.
The Retreat Experience
Located in the rolling hills of Poplarville, Mississippi, the All-Inclusive Retreat offers a comprehensive environment for this transformation.
Instruction & Activities: Days are filled with Michael’s high-energy instruction, ranging from the Respect Series to advanced skills like cattle sorting and bridleless riding.
Southern Hospitality: The experience is rounded out by the Gascon family’s legendary hospitality, featuring home-cooked meals by Mrs. Cindy and the famous morning Cuban coffee.
Accommodations: Guests stay in a unique Western-style hotel or cozy cabins right on the ranch, ensuring you are never far from the horses. While larger groups can stay in the 4bedroom 2bath lodge with its quaint quiet atmosphere.
Whether you are an experienced rider or overcoming deep-seated fears, the Spring Retreat provides the tools to replace dominance with a bond built on crystal-clear communication and heart-to-heart connection

A superb value! I have never seen a family work as hard as this one. The information and knowledge disseminated could not have been easier to understand plus it all made sense. Everyone was friendly and helpful plus food was great and more than plentiful. A relaxing vacation for sure.

We had the best time at the Gaited retreat in March. We learned so much from Michael. Have several things to work on at home now.
Brooke also was very informative with her nutrition class. I never would have thought my horse had an ulcer, but after her segment I went out and bought the Outlast supplement and it has made a tremendous difference in my horse.
I would truly recommend any of Michael's retreats to anyone that needs help with there horses.
There hospitality is unparalleled, they take great care of you and the FOOD is awesome too.

What an amazing week focusing on gaited horses and all they are capable of doing - if only I can ask the right way :) Always amazing to hang with horse folk and be spoiled by Mrs. Cindi and her crew... its addicting the good feelings keep you coming back.

This was my 6th retreat...... and it never gets old! There is always something new to learn. As usual, the food, fun, and fellowship was exceptional. The horse training part was top notch. 5 stars, absolutely recommend!

Love it but it’s a tad bit small for my petite Paso Fino. He takes a 4 3/4” bit to compare his muzzle size.

I have attended several retreats, and my horse improves each time. It was so rewarding to have my horse be so willing and full of try, relaxed and really being partnered with me. It was icing on the cake when we realized how to get a second gear when gaiting! There is not much that compares to the feeling when the relationship clicks! Thanks so much to the variety of training opportunities priveded by MG and Horse Help!

We had a great time, the people in the session were lots of fun and Michael did a great job. The food was spectacular (as always). There were only a few of us who didn't have our own horses, so we had the priviledge of riding the passos. We learned a lot and hope to continue to be better horse people.

This was our second retreat and it was even better than the first! The staff make you feel like you're part of the family. Michael and Kelsey have a unique and effective way of teaching that gets results nearly instantly. Looking forward to number 3!

It was everything i thought it was going to be and more

Excellent horse retreat in learning new skills in using your legs to guide and stop your horse. Things you will learn during this retreat are: using your legs to spin, stop and side pass. These are all in preparation to go bridleless! The ultimate goal of riding with your horse. You chase real cows and mechanical cows, learn to rope and use spurs. I had so much fun in cantering and chasing the mechanical cow as fast as I could ride. Always a great time with friends and meeting new friends with the great Gascon family with so much hospitality.

I had no expectations as I had never been. My mind was blown on the professional but fun way the retreat was run. The accommodations were awesome while the learning was great. I had so many ahh ha moments and was on cloud nine most of the retreat. I was so impressed that I am returning for the cattle retreat. I highly recommend this program. My husband, who is a non horse person, said he actually learned a lot and if he was ever to get on a horse, he would do it under Micheal’s supervision. The money was so well spent. You will not regret going!!!!

Absolutely the very best 👍🏻 my horse and I learned so much . I will definitely continue to go to more retreats ❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️

Knot placement