In the Presence of Horses: A Morning of Surrender and Grace

An Invitation into Stillness, Intuition, and the Living Earth

As summer gives way to the first golden signs of autumn, we’re invited to slow down and step into deeper relationship with the land — and with ourselves.

Join us for a morning of mindful nature connection and equine presence, a unique experience designed to nourish the senses, restore balance, and open us to the subtle but powerful wisdom of the natural world.

Part One: Forest Bathing with Kathleen Lowe

We start our morning together with a serene forest bathing experience, guided by Kathleen Lowe, the founder of Friends of the Forest. This mindful journey takes you through lush woodlands and around a tranquil pond, offering a deep connection with nature. Kathleen brings extensive expertise as a certified Mindful Outdoor Guide through the Kripalu School of Mindful Outdoor Leadership and a certified Forest Therapy Guide with the Association of Nature and Forest Therapy (ANFT), a global leader in evidence-based nature therapy practices.

Her walks follow the ANFT’s structured approach, rooted in the Japanese practice of Shinrin-yoku, as well as ecotherapy and the Way of Council. Each walk is a gentle, sensory-rich journey designed to reduce stress, enhance well-being, and deepen personal connection to nature.

Kathleen's work is specifically designed for women, offering a safe, nurturing space to release the demands of daily life and reconnect with one’s body, inner wisdom, and the earth. Her recent training in somatic healing adds a deeper layer to this practice, inviting participants into embodied presence — allowing for release, grounding, and integration.

Her background in art history from Brown University weaves in a unique appreciation for nature’s beauty as a living canvas, blending reflection, creativity, and reverence in every experience.

Part Two: Equine Observation & Connection with Kim Severance

Following our time with the forest, we’ll transition into the company of the horses of High Hopes Therapeutic Riding, guided by Kim Severance, CTRS, ESMHL, CTRI, MMES.

Kim brings decades of experience in therapeutic recreation, beginning with her love of horses at age five and evolving into a deep, purposeful career centered around animal-assisted healing. With certifications across therapeutic recreation, equine-assisted learning, and the Masterson Method of equine bodywork, Kim holds a deep respect for the intuitive, healing nature of horses.

Our horse partners at High Hopes are professional therapeutic partners, carefully trained and supported to interact with humans in grounded, meaningful ways. What makes this experience truly different is its intentionality:

We do not enter with expectations to pet, ride, or lead. We enter with curiosity, stillness, and openness. In this spaciousness, the horses are free to be themselves — unhaltered, unhurried — and any interaction happens on their terms.

This calm, choice-based environment invites a different kind of connection — one that arises not from control, but from consent, mutual presence, and energy. These moments, when they occur, can be profoundly moving.

For those carrying fear or unease around horses, know this space is held with deep care. You are welcome to observe from outside the paddock if that feels right. Your pace is honored. Presence is enough.

Integration Circle

We’ll close our morning with tea, journaling, and a council-style circle, offering space to share insights and integrate the experiences of the day — whether they arose in the forest, among the horses, or in the quiet places within.

This program is thoughtfully crafted for women seeking to connect with the healing power of nature and animals. It represents years of training, refinement, and heartfelt dedication by two women who have walked this journey with authenticity and purpose.

Whether you come to reconnect with yourself, soften into a new season, or listen for what wants to emerge — you are warmly welcomed.

No horse or outdoor experience required — just an open heart.

Space is limited · Registration required
Hosted in partnership with High Hopes Therapeutic Riding Center

What You Can Expect

Experience a serene and meaningful journey with moments of quiet reflection in nature, personal time connecting with the horses, guided meditation, and journaling. In the presence of these majestic beings, you’ll explore the depth of your own inner landscape — all held within the beauty of a small, intimate group of just eight women.

You’ll be invited into reflective time with the therapeutic horses of High Hopes, who serve not as tools or performers, but as gentle companions on your path of self-discovery. Simply being alongside them often evokes a natural sense of calm, clarity, and presence.

This offering includes:

• A guided forest bathing walk

• Time in the paddock with horses at liberty — no halters, no demands

• Equine-guided reflection and meditation

• Tea and a closing sharing circle

• Special gift(s) for participants

Safety & Support:
You’ll learn appropriate behavior around horses to ensure both your safety and theirs. All interactions are facilitated with care and supported by experienced guides. If you feel unsure or carry past fears, you are welcome to observe from beyond the gate. We honor where you are, and we walk gently together.

A few days before the gathering, you will receive an email with detailed directions, what to bring, and what to wear. All participants are required to sign a liability waiver for High Hopes Therapeutic Riding Center.

This offering is limited to 8 women.
Investment: $65 (non-refundable)