by Kelly Dukarski, Gestaltist
A Wild Omen, LLC
Introduction: This capstone project endeavors to shed light on the therapeutic potential of equine interactions and the interconnectedness among living beings. It elucidates that cultivating mindfulness to embrace the present moment facilitates profound connections, heightened consciousness, and enduring well-being. Fostering a collective environment for mutual presence fosters the therapeutic journey through the collective conscious presence.
Significance: In the vicinity of horses, individuals can effectively modulate their nervous systems, synchronize with their breathing patterns, and attain a state of tranquility. Engaging with horses in a communal setting engenders a shared therapeutic experience, highlighting the significance of mindfulness and maintaining a supportive environment in facilitating others’ healing journeys.
Purpose: This capstone project recognizes the interconnected dynamics between equines and humans as they unite for a shared healing experience. The effectiveness of this therapeutic process stems from the mutual energy contributed by all participants involved.
Setting and Participants: In October 2022 and October 2023, a cohort of 15 women, who were previously unacquainted and hailing from diverse geographical locations, convened at Zapata Ranch in Mosca, Colorado. Their purpose was to participate in an Equine Gestalt Retreat conducted by A Wild Omen, LLC. The primary objective of the retreat was to acquaint the participants with the therapeutic approach of Equine Gestalt. Given that each woman was at a distinct stage of personal healing upon arrival, the occasion provided an opportunity for a collective exploration of healing. The ranch accommodates 60 horses that roam freely throughout the property. During the retreat, the horses grazed in the vicinity of the group, with most animals positioned several hundred feet away.
Capstone Description/Process: The gathering of women took place in an expansive open space bordered by the vast prairie and the prominent Sangre de Cristo mountains. Approximately 60 horses roamed freely hundreds of feet away. The women were instructed to position themselves comfortably, either standing or sitting, with closed eyes. Subsequently, they were led through a meditation session intended to clear their minds and establish a connection with their breath. Deep breathing was encouraged, with an emphasis on visualizing the exhaled breath traveling across the prairie to reach the horses, while each inhalation drew the horses closer to them. The participants were also prompted to envision a bond forming between their hearts and the horses.
The group observed a remarkable phenomenon as the horses ceased grazing and directed their attention towards the women. All 60 horses gradually encircled the women, lowering their heads and synchronizing their breath with the women’s. Without physical contact, the horses aligned themselves near the women. Their serene presence enabled the women to release pent-up emotions, leading to a profound and awe-inspiring experience. It was a pivotal moment when the women comprehended that the horses were providing unwavering support by encircling them.
Upon the commencement of the women’s conversation, the horses gradually disengaged from their previous activity and transitioned to grazing, marking a discernible shift in the atmosphere. This change in energy prompted all 60 horses to resume their grazing behavior.
Capstone Results/Impact: The women exhibited emotions of serenity, elation, acceptance, interpersonal connectedness, and profound affection. Each woman was noted to display a state of relaxation, composure, and physical ease. The nervous systems of all participants were observed to be in a regulated condition, thereby restoring an equilibrium in the flow of energy. The Gestalt experience determined that embracing a profound connection with one’s own body has the potential to establish an energetic rapport with others, thus offering a somatic healing encounter.
Capstone Evaluation: The duration of the entire experience was 1 hour. Within 8 minutes of the commencement of the meditation, the horses initiated their approach towards the women and encircled them for 40 minutes. A break in the connection occurred for approximately 2 minutes as the women engaged in conversation regarding the experience. Subsequently, within 5-10 minutes, all the horses resumed roaming the vast prairie.
Future Directions: Recommend additional studies to examine equine herd behavior within the context of an Equine Gestalt Group Session and specifically emphasize the interplay of energy between equines and humans during a somatic healing experience.
Acknowledgments: To Quest for showing me the trail. To Avery for lighting the way and being my rock. To Spirit, Mojo, Safari, Boone, Wilder, Wish & Night for helping me to be the best version of myself. To all the horses who have crossed my path…I stand in reverence to you. To Melisa Pearce for believing in me and mentoring me through the beautiful world of Equine Gestalt. To the “Forces of Nature “who buffer me from the storm. To Mother Nature who keeps me in awe and asks me to remember the language of wild things, I am grateful.
References:
Van Der Kolk, Bessel (2015) The Body Keeps the Score. Penguin Books
Kilmer, Robin Wall (2013) Braiding Sweetgrass, Milkweed Editions
Pearce, Melisa (2019). What the Heck is Gestalt? Touched by Horse, Inc