Finding the Peace of Presence Among Horses

Imagine immersing yourself in a serene sanctuary, where the rhythm of everyday life fades away amidst the freedom of open fields and a herd of horses roam freely alongside you. This unique journey invites you to escape the chaos and embrace tranquility. Through guided forest bathing, journaling prompts, and relaxation techniques in the presence of these majestic creatures, you're encouraged to explore your senses and reconnect with yourself in the sacred embrace of Mother Nature.

Spending time with horses is a transformative experience. Their balanced vibration can profoundly impact our well-being, opening us to inner stillness and a world of new possibilities. Amidst a herd, we enter a sacred space where distractions melt away, allowing us to focus on personal growth and self-discovery. The horses themselves become our guides, teaching us about presence and the power of living in the moment.

We'll close our time together with a reflective tea ceremony, expressing gratitude to the horses, the land, and all beings. A final meditation will provide space for introspection and sharing, creating a safe and supportive environment for our journey's reflections.

Please note: This unique event takes place with the horses freely roaming in their fields.

What You Can Expect

• You can expect quiet, reflective time, journaling, a guided forest bathing walk, and equine-guided meditation—all in the presence of horses wandering at liberty in their field, exploring and sharing the wonders of this sacred time and space with a small, intimate group of eight women.
• Reflective time with the therapeutic horses of High Hopes as companions on your journey toward self-discovery. As you spend time alongside these majestic creatures, their presence alone evokes a sense of calmness and serenity.
• The journey begins with a grounding meditation to center yourself in the present moment. You will learn appropriate behavior around horses to ensure both their safety and yours. Participant safety and the well-being of the horses are our top priorities. All interactions are guided by experienced facilitators, ensuring a safe, respectful, and enriching experience for both you and the horses.
• We will incorporate time for journaling near the horses, and we will end our time together with a tea gathering and sharing circle.
• This offering will be held outdoors at High Hopes Therapeutic Riding Center, a private horse-centered healing center in Old Lyme.
• All participants are required to sign liability waivers for High Hopes Therapeutic Riding Center.
• This offering is limited to only eight women.
• Yoga mats and a limited number of collapsible camping stools will be available.
• $50 investment. This offering is NON-REFUNDABLE.

Your Equine Facilitator from High Hopes

Kim Severance, CTRS, ESHHL, CTRI, MMES

From a young age, Kim has harbored a profound love for animals, with horses holding a special place in her heart. Her journey into the equestrian world began at the tender age of five, quickly evolving from casual riding to competitive events both on the flat and over jumps. These early experiences not only honed her skills but also deepened her empathy and appreciation for horses as sentient beings.

Holding a Master of Science in Recreation and Leisure, Kim has dedicated her career to therapeutic recreation, becoming a Certified Therapeutic Recreation Specialist (CTRS) in 2006. Her approach is unique, integrating animals ranging from dogs and dolphins to horses into her therapy sessions. She is continually inspired by the significant insights and transformations her clients achieve through these interspecies interactions.

In 2019, Kim shifted her focus to primarily working with horses, earning her certification as a therapeutic riding instructor (CTRI) through PATH, followed by her qualification as an equine specialist in mental health and learning (ESMHL). Driven by a desire to reciprocate the healing horses provide, Kim has also delved into equine bodywork. As a certified Masterson Method Equine Specialist (MMES), she finds joy in fostering trust and connection, enhancing the well-being of her equine companions.

Kim's philosophy centers on encouraging individuals to live in the moment, remain inquisitive, and trust their instincts—lessons she believes are best taught by our equine partners. Her passion and dedication not only highlight the therapeutic power of animals but also underscore the profound bond between humans and horses.