Calm. I find that a calm, grounded sense of myself helps facilitate a positive interaction with both people and equines.

Kind. More kindness is the answer to everything. My goal with every trim - with every interaction with clients and their horses - is to help. People (not horses) must let go of their ego to accept help; it’s easier for them to do that when they are treated with kindness.

Compassion. No matter how much information I have, I can never know everything a horse - or human - has experienced. I can never know what might be challenging to them. I have had my own journey, and it’s taken me many years (and mistakes) to be where I am now. I strive to maintain an appreciation for each client’s goals and to balance that with their equine’s needs.

Confident. Confidence isn’t about knowing everything, or being able to do everything. For me, confidence is about knowing my skills - and my limits - and being open and honest about them so that if I don’t have the necessary information, I can still help find it.

Curiosity. This is all about learning. A curious horse is one who wants to learn - and one who will likely have their own ideas to contribute. A curious client will ask me endless questions. I love this. One of the many things I love about my job is getting to talk with so many different people and learn from their experiences, which I can then share with my other clients.

Courage. Being honest and vulnerable requires courage. If we are truly interested in personal growth, in showing up and putting in as much energy and intention as we ask from our horses, we will need much courage. For me, being courageous isn’t about daring physical feats, but about offering myself, my skills, my knowledge to other people and their horses. 

INTENTION. ATTENTION. NO TENSION. 

I honor myself first.
I betray myself last.
I listen to the horse.
I speak for the horse.
I place my heart in my hands.

I am soft. 

I am kind.
I am calm.
I touch one thing, and I touch everything.
I breathe in.
I am here.
I am connected.
I am grateful.
I breathe out, and ask for permission to be of service.