Finding Joy in the Chore

One of the things that may seem odd to the outside world – but feels perfectly natural in our Equinimity community – is the love for cleaning up after the horses. Our volunteers often share this with a mix of humor and sincerity: that there’s something grounding about it. When we look into this a little deeper, we understand that there is indeed something meditative about this task. It involves a rhythm, a tactile connection to the earth and the horses, and simply being in nature. The task itself is simple, but it is a heartfelt act of service, a way to care for the horses who give us so much. And somehow, even when it is us humans doing something for the horses, they still end up giving something back to us – in tending to their space, we find ourselves tending to our own sense of balance and peace.

There’s a kind of quiet magic in doing something that doesn’t demand attention or applause. The slow, steady movement of raking, the scent of the earth, the soft sounds of horses nearby – all of it invites us to be fully present. These are the moments when time seems to loosen its grip, when the noise of daily life fades. We’re simply here, in this moment. It’s not glamorous, but it’s real. And in that realness, there’s peace. The same sense of calm and mutual benefit can be found in our Mindful Grooming sessions at Equinimity, where brushing a horse isn’t just about caring for their coat – it’s also about gently caring for our mind and spirit. 

It’s not always easy to find this kind of peace in our daily lives. Many of us spend hours behind screens, managing the magnitude of emails, meetings, and endless to-do lists. The pace of modern life pulls us toward efficiency and distraction. We juggle so many open tabs – literally on our computers, and figuratively in our minds. Our volunteers, our community, and horses offer a constant reminder that slowing down to do something ordinary, with care, can feel calming, meaningful – even fun. Reflecting on this, it’s not just being with horses that can bring about these profound feelings. For others, it might be doing the dishes, walking the dog, or painting a room.

There is fun and satisfaction in cleaning or tidying up a space. There is something soothing about hearing the sound of animals, or feeling a gentle breeze, or the coolness of water on your hands. Even the most routine tasks can become keys to mindfulness when we approach them with openness. The act of doing something can turn into a small celebration of being alive – of feeling, touching, smelling, noticing. Something that is a chore can transform into a kind of dance between the body and the moment.

When we approach a task with a sense of presence, we naturally become more engaged and energized. That shift in mindset can also create joy and a playful way to reconnect with purpose. 

A community member recently shared with us that she had read a book called Feel-Good Productivity by Ali Abdaal. The author writes that finding joy and meaning in what we do not only helps us get things done – it also makes our actions more sustainable and fulfilling. When we bring a sense of purpose or playfulness to our everyday routines, we transform simple effort into something that nourishes us rather than drains us. 

The more we find meaning in our actions, the more alive we feel in our daily lives. And perhaps that’s what the horses show us every day: that joy doesn’t need to be chased. It can be found right where we are, shovel in hand, heart wide open to the simple beauty of now. Whether we’re brushing a horse, folding laundry, or tending a garden, each moment offers a chance to slow down, breathe, and rediscover the quiet joy of simply being here.

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It is a dream of ours at Equinimity to share the many lessons we learn from horses with our wider community. Next month, we have the opportunity to do just that through film. On November 29th, we will be hosting a screening of Rescued Hearts. 

Rescued Hearts is a powerful documentary that explores the profound and often miraculous connection between humans and horses. Inspired by a life-changing moment—when a 7-year-old boy diagnosed with autism spoke his first words while interacting with a horse—filmmakers Dana Croschere and Krisanna Sexton set out to uncover the deeper meaning behind this extraordinary bond.

Through deeply moving personal stories, expert insights, and research, Rescued Hearts explores how horses serve as catalysts for healing and transformation, helping us open our hearts and reconnect with our authentic selves. The film not only highlights lives forever changed through these experiences but also uncovers a universal truth: healing is never one-sided.

Rescued Hearts isn’t just the story of horses—it’s the story of all of us, offering an invitation for deeper connection with ourselves, each other, and all of nature.

We’re honored that Dana Croschere and Krisanna Sexton will be present at the screening to share more about their journey in creating Rescued Hearts.

Every ticket supports Equinimity’s work of fostering healing, community, and connection in partnership with horses. 

When: Saturday, November 29, 1:00 PM – 5:00 PM

Where: Jewish Community Center, 3800 E River Rd, Tucson, AZ 85718

Admission: Tickets start at $25 

For more information and to purchase tickets, please click here.