The horse world - and our culture at large - is one that seeks out methods, formulas and quick-fixes. The “I do these simple steps and then I get this result” framework. It’s soothing to our restless, overburdened minds. But this kind of approach often focuses solely on the functioning of the horse, and getting them to do what we want in service to our personal agendas. Such an arrangement leaves no room for the horse’s voice or needs in the conversation, and thus is not a true relationship. In Being with Horses you will not find any recipes for success. What we teach is awareness of body, mind, and soul, so that you can learn to freely communicate with your horse just as you would a beloved friend. 

 Most horse people have spent the majority of their lives riding, but have never been given the space or encouragement to look into a horse’s eyes, to observe their posture and body language, and consider what they are actually saying and feeling. What does a happy horse look like? A proud horse? A confused or frustrated horse? Once we learn to read the signs, and our horses feel we are truly listening, they start to tell their stories, and true conversation begins. And as we respond to our horses, our own self-awareness is just as important: What are we communicating to our horses with our body language? Our energy? As highly social and sensory beings, horses will feel it all, and hold up a mirror to the truth within.

The symbol of the horse is one of pride and power, of majesty and grace. When we think of the horses that have captured the hearts of humanity - The Black Stallion, Hidalgo, Spirit - we can feel the fire in their eyes, their aliveness and energy. In Being with Horses we welcome and encourage this natural state of being, which is every horse’s birthright. We honor their dignity and nobility, and as their companions and caretakers, we seek to build them up rather than keep them small and submissive. Thus, the challenge in Being with Horses is to develop our courage and power alongside our horses, so that we can meet them on their level and, in doing so, may experience true aliveness within ourselves. 

The Being with Horses path is unique in the horse world, because it is one without a final goal or destination. Rather it is the journey itself, the practice of being present in relationship, that is the key to experiencing joy and fulfillment with our horses. While on this journey, we will inevitably be confronted with learned beliefs and strategies that block us from connection - from being in the present moment - whether it’s pressure, expectations, perfectionism, ambition, or a fear-based need for power and control. But when we can allow our horses to guide us toward being present, we may learn to let go and surrender into the moment, and experience a depth of connection to ourselves, our horses, and the natural world that can only be described as spiritual.