10/13/2026
It’s the second week of ! With it comes another prompt from Horses for Mental Health and the challenge.
I chose to read the document: The Healing Power of Horses: How Equines Support our Well-Being by Dr Helen Sharp and Dr Pebbles Turbeville.
My favorite quote was at the end: “Next time you are near a horse, take a moment to appreciate the quiet, powerful ways they help us become more balanced, resilient, and whole.”
When I was young I remember just loving horses. I had horse EVERYTHING. From my bedsheets to my cowgirl boots 😂🩷🐴 I just loved being around them. From the age 6 to about 19 I rode, trained, and showed horses all over the Midwest. Almost every weekend we were traveling. I also participated in my local 4h program and high school equestrian team. Somewhere along those travels I misplaced how to love the horse for just being a horse, a sentient being. I got lost in the perfect trail course, sticking the 360 degree spin, and winning the points for my team. The horse became less of a friend & more of a way to accomplish something. Even when that “something” was wrapped up in a pretty bow of important life skills which looked like self confidence, leadership, or teamwork.
I shared this picture of Hippo, the chestnut mare, as she is a constant everyday reminder to me to simply appreciate the horse 🩷 her favorite gear is “parking brake” or “neutral” 😂 speedy she is not but she is very good at resting and self care. Her worth is not tied up in what she can do for me.
She also helps raise awareness for invisible disabilities as Hippo has PSSM2. Each day can be a bit different for her depending upon how her body is doing but she shows us that a bit of warmth, gratitude, and coming from a place kindness goes a long way in our friendship. Thank you Hippo 🩷
Each day you remind me how to be more balanced in my daily self care, and resilient & patient when difficulties arise. This all helps me hold gratitude in my heart and become a more whole person.
~ Crystal
