Jess rode horses while growing up and returned to riding 10 years ago at the age of 32.
“I had to find my natural balance again as well as regain my lost fearlessness,” she says.
“A peaceful approach means a calm and less damaging way for both me and the horses I am working with.
“Horses pick up on energy — they are very observant and feed off how you feel. If you bring tense nervousness, it will be reflected in the horse.
“The slower you go, the faster the desired outcome. It’s a process of learning about yourself, regulating emotional responses and encouraging the communication partnership between horses and humans, while practising the art of living in the moment.”
Jess divides her time between teaching at a primary school in town and managing her business as a life coach, which also merges into her work with Free Spirit Equestrian NZ.
Corrie’ s love of horses also began when she was younger. She started training her own horses after discovering the natural horsemanship method 15 years ago.
Natural horsemanship draws on the philosophy of working with horses based on a horse’s natural instincts and how they communicate, says Corrie.
“I was drawn to the softer scale of training and building up a friendship with my horses first and foremost.”
Corrie leads a variety of horsemanship activities in the arena, and explains, “the games are designed to build a conversation, connection and nurture the partnership between rider and the horse”.
“Most importantly it’s about fun.
“The rider’s energy is important to the horse, so its OK to laugh if a mistake is made in training — it’s not a big deal.
“I encourage people to be excited and happy with their horses. The partnership journey is incredible!”
The horsemanship workshops also include lessons in solving problem behaviours.
Participants of the day clinics are able to opt for a whole day workshop or choose which activities they would like to be involved with.
The clinic begins with an hour-long quartz sound-bowl healing session which works on a geometry of frequencies that are harmonious to bodies (human and animal) and in tune with nature. The transfer of sound energy is thought to create a calming and meditative effect.
Other healing therapies offered during the day include animal acupuncture, life coaching through equine therapy, ConTact C.A.R.E (Common Sense Approach to Real Ease, a hands-on healing modality) and massage for both horse and rider.
Morning tea and lunch provide a platform for participants to get to know each other and share their “why” for attending a clinic.
And a three-hour trek through the surrounding countryside rounds off the day for those who wish to join.
This year Jess and Corrie will also be offering one-on-one sessions and are in discussion with iwi at Manutuke to provide healing through horsemanship coaching for local youth in the area.
