Alex is believed to be a 21 yr. old AQH Standardbred cross. He was a rescue from a barn nine months prior, where he was being ridden while in very poor condition and uncomfortable all over his body. Alex was now retired to pasture and had put on weight. He was on supplements for pain, but recently had become tender footed.
The first day of the Healing with Horses, the class went out to the pasture to work with Alex, as he was wasn’t willing to walk more than a few steps. His natural curiosity and desire for human contact was gone, he was expressionless as each person approached and acknowledged him. The dullness of his coat, his sway back, vacant eyes and shut down mind made it difficult for any of us to comprehend how he could have continually been used in an active riding program.
Alex was so internalized and withdrawn, that he could not personally communicate his needs, but it was clear to each healer where and how he needed help. He stood silently, stoically; accepting the healing. We held Alex with compassionate hearts; witnessing the heartbreak of a horse so wounded he had no desire to connect with a human.
As each person had laid their healing hands on Alex, it was apparent that his eyes would brighten and that his mind became a bit clearer. When the healing was complete, the participants unanimously remarked, “Could it be possible – his coat is actually brighter! “ and “His back, it’s amazing – there’s less sway!”
The most beautiful, heartwarming end to this day of learning and practicing healing was Alex’s expression of gratitude. The circle of healing that Alex created, by taking steps towards each person, reaching out with his muzzle and tenderly touching their hand.