The day began with introductions and then the children went out into the bush trail to find their individualised bags which were subsequently filled with a soft toy horse and some other bits and pieces. These bags became treasured possessions and helped the children to feel a sense of empowerment.

My two riders were such a good team and shared time on and off the horse amazingly. Once my first rider was helped to get on Missie (my trusted companion), he was overwhelmed, trembling and could hardly breathe. Unbeknown to me he was fearful of riding all week. So we stayed put and I emphasised on taking slow and deep breaths. After taking a few breaths together, he still was unsure if he could continue, so I gave him the option to take only two steps and if he didn’t feel comfortable, we could stop. This went alright, but as he was still a bit unsure, I gave him the “verbal reins”. Enabling him to make the choice between walking and stopping was crucial and this gave him the confidence to ride on and enjoy himself. 

This reminded me how powerful being present, breathing and having a choice is for the whole team (rider, horse and volunteer) which should not be underestimated. 

The second part which stood out for me was a little girl who was on another team but thought Missie was so much prettier and wanted to ride her. However, as it doesn’t always work out this way it wasn’t possible for her, which seemed to upset her. Almost at the end of our day, she came up to me to ask if she could give Missie a hug. Sure, was my reply and she raised her arms up and gave this patient horse the biggest, longest hug. You could see and feel this healing and bonding moment which hopefully makes a little difference to one little girl. 

It doesn’t stop to amaze me, how these four legged beings can be such great healers without a word being spoken. We are so lucky that horses let us into their realm and work with and for us to support and heal.