Donkey Therapy

Tolfa is home to 'retired' donkeys who have been injured and can no longer work or after a life spent hauling heavy loads, are just abandoned when old and no longer healthy. Rachel explains that they will spend the rest of their days at here, they cannot be rehomed as there would always be someone who would try to get that last little bit of work out of them.

I am happy to hear this,  they will spend the rest of their days in the peace and tranquility of Tolfa receiving a constant supply of food and water and medical attention if needed. It would be easy to feel pity and anger at their treatment at the hands of their owners but when I connect with each one they are keen to relate how proud they are of their 'service' to humans, one even gives me a vivid image of himself in his younger days.

Older donkey with his friend Donkey Dog

One oldie was found collapsed in the street and had been off his feet for his first few days at Tolfa having to be propped up in the morning by staff, he spent most of the day leaning against a wall unable to hold his own weight and was clearly uncomfortable most of the time. As soon as I started to offer Reiki he was in there ! I had a distinct sensation of the energy flowing through channels (meridians) and the physical response was instant he stood unsupported and started to eat - donkeys are just amazing !

This was the first time I had really had the chance to work closely with donkeys and I can't believe how receptive to therapies , any therapies, they are. Whatever was on offer they were keen to try, so it wasn't long before they were on essential oils, macerates, supplements and massage. As always when offering Reiki I allow the animal to guide it's own treatment, it is their decision whether to accept the Reiki or not. The donkeys know exactly what they want and are very direct their requests, moving into my hands, the heat generated is incredible - they definately prefer a hands on treatment.

It is plain to see the damage caused by a life of hauling heavy loads.