Buffalo seasons Awareness in life
A Testimonial on the Magic of Horses.
On May 16, 2026, I had the privilege of offering testimony at Riverwood Therapeutic Riding Center’s Gallop & Graze event on what I can only describe as the quiet magic of horses. I spoke not only as a volunteer, therapeutic rider, and equine-assisted psychotherapist, but as someone whose own life has been altered by being in relationship with horses. What began as volunteering at Riverwood became an unexpected journey toward healing, presence, and deeper understanding of the mind-body connection. This reflection shares some of that story—and the profound impact Riverwood continues to have on participants, volunteers, and our wider community.
When people ask why I volunteer at Riverwood Therapeutic Riding Center, I usually give a practical answer. I say that I enjoy horses. I say I value the mission. I say I wanted to give back.
On the Threshold of Equine Assisted Psychotherapy
Equine assisted psychotherapy has shown profound benefit for those navigating trauma, grief, anxiety, depression, attachment wounds, and life transitions. For many, especially those who feel “stuck” in traditional therapy, the barn becomes a threshold. The horse, with its attunement and honesty, calls forth trust, boundary-setting, communication, and self-regulation in ways that words alone cannot.
Rediscovering the Maiden in You
The Maiden archetype often gets relegated to a youthful, naïve part of ourselves—a phase we outgrow as we journey into the responsibilities and complexities of adulthood. But as women navigate (peri)menopause(post), we often find ourselve drawn back to their Maiden selves, not as a nostalgic longing for youth, but as a deeper understanding of what she represents.