The first light of dawn peeks over the horizon as you stir awake, stretching and smiling at the promise of a new day. The gentle warmth of the sunrise greets you as you slip into your boots and step outside, the crisp morning air filling your lungs. The moment your feet touch the ground, a chorus of welcoming nickers drifts through the air—your herd is waiting. Lined up at the fence, ears pricked forward, their soft eyes follow you as you make your way to the feed bins, their anticipation palpable. With each flake of hay dropped, each filled water bucket, you feel gratitude for this sacred partnership, knowing the horses are just as much a part of today’s work as you are.
Back inside, the rich aroma of coffee fills the kitchen as you pour yourself a steaming mug, taking a quiet moment to soak in the simple blessings surrounding you. The rhythm of your days is one of service—to both horses and humans—and you wouldn't have it any other way. Before diving into the day’s schedule, you take a deep breath, centering yourself in appreciation for this life, this work, this path.
Your phone screen lights up, displaying the lineup for the day: a woman navigating the unfamiliar terrain of divorce, searching for her true self; a couple referred by a therapist, eager to strengthen their communication and connection; two longtime friends, curious about equine-assisted coaching and ready to step into an experience that promises insight, reflection, and maybe even a little laughter. Each session holds the potential for transformation, and you can already feel the energy of the day building in your heart.
Before clients arrive, there's time for a bit of admin—updating social media with an inspiring post, responding to emails, and ensuring your bookkeeping is in order. Tax season is approaching, and getting paperwork organized now will save a headache later. With a quick check of your favorite podcast list, you see that a new episode has dropped—perfect for later when you take a break to recharge with a walk through the desert, letting the open sky and untamed landscape clear your mind.
There’s also time for another important part of the day—stall and turnout cleaning. As you grab your pitchfork and wheelbarrow, you welcome the simple, grounding rhythm of the work. The earthy scent of hay and horses fills your senses, and as you methodically scoop and sift, your mind relaxes. It’s a therapeutic process, one where you can let go of lingering thoughts and simply be present. The steady scrape of the rake, the gentle rustling of the horses nearby, and the satisfaction of seeing a clean, fresh space bring a quiet joy that is as much a part of your day as any coaching session.
The first client arrives, hesitant yet hopeful. Her eyes dart between you and the horses, a mix of nerves and anticipation. You lead her into the arena, introducing her to a horse that seems drawn to her energy. Through subtle cues and gentle interactions, the horse mirrors her emotions, offering insights she may not have yet voiced aloud. As the session unfolds, a shift happens—a realization, a deep breath, an unspoken understanding taking root within her.
Next, the couple enters the round pen, unsure of what to expect. The exercise requires them to guide a horse through an obstacle course using only non-verbal communication. Frustration surfaces, then patience, then laughter. They begin to see how their individual energies affect not just the horse but each other. The session ends with them standing side by side, hands brushing, a newfound awareness blooming between them.
The two girlfriends arrive, full of curiosity and excitement. They quickly lose themselves in the moment, their laughter weaving through the air as they take turns engaging with the horses. They leave with hearts full and a deeper connection—not just to the horses but to themselves and each other.
As the sun begins its descent, there are still evening chores to tend to—topping off water troughs, checking on the herd, and spending a few quiet moments simply being with the horses, offering scratches and whispered gratitude. They have given just as much today as you have, their wisdom woven through each session.
The day ends with reflection. A few moments with your journal allow you to capture the highlights—the breakthroughs, the lessons, the beautiful, unexpected moments. You crawl into bed, heart full, mind at ease, a smile gracing your lips as you look forward to doing it all over again tomorrow. Because this work, this life, is more than just a job—it’s a calling, a journey, and a gift.
Being an equine-assisted coach is not a job you step into and out of when your workday is done; it is a way of life. For those drawn to this work, it fills your soul.
Many of our coaches have their own horses on their property and enjoy their presence right out the back door. Others do not own horses but have developed meaningful partnerships with horses they work with, experiencing the same deep connection and transformational impact.
The beauty of this work is that it is the connection with the horses that touches hearts and changes lives—for you and for your clients. If this is the lifestyle your heart yearns to create, visit our website and discover the world of Equine-Assisted Coaching. Our Equine Assisted Coach training program is your doorway into this world.
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