Photo Credit: Annie Colangeli
embracing our true rhythm
“The horses will teach you if you listen” - Ray Hunt
When we think of horses, some of us may envision loyal, four-legged companions guided by humans. While we may gently steer them along certain paths, horses are creatures of instinct—they instinctively veer away from danger or discomfort. Observing horses in their natural habitat offers a beautiful lesson in authenticity. Renowned for their sensitivity, they possess an innate ability to discern and gravitate toward what feels good and what is safe for them. As humans, we can draw inspiration from horses and learn to embrace our own true rhythm.
Horses follow their own rhythm in various ways, both physically and emotionally. Physically, horses have a natural gait and movement pattern that reflects their inner state and external environment. When they're relaxed and content, their movements tend to be fluid and rhythmic, reflecting a sense of ease and harmony. Conversely, if they're agitated or anxious, their movements may become tense, mirroring their emotional state.
Horses also have individual preferences and personalities that influence their behavior and responses. Some may enjoy a leisurely stroll while others may prefer a brisk trot or gallop. Their unique rhythms also extend to their interactions with humans and other animals, which can be observed through subtle body language and vocalizations.
Emotionally, horses are highly attuned to their surroundings and instincts. They possess an innate ability to sense danger or discomfort, prompting them to either approach or retreat from a situation accordingly. This sensitivity allows them to navigate their environment, trusting their instincts to guide them along their own rhythm.
Whether it's seeking shelter from a storm or standing quietly to experience a calming breeze, horses follow their own rhythm without hesitation, embodying a beautiful harmony between their inner essence and the world around them.
For us two-leggeds, following our own rhythm may not always be the easiest thing to do. Amid the hustle and bustle of modern life, it can be easy to become disconnected from our inner selves and the rhythms that truly nourish us. Sometimes, we face circumstances that keep us from recognizing what is emerging within ourselves. Or perhaps, we fall into the routine of our everyday lives that we don’t get the opportunity to check in with ourselves and quietly ask;
How does this feel for me?
For horses, responding to this question happens naturally, instantly, and instinctively. For us, It might take awhile to arrive at an answer, but sometimes, our bodies may tell us before we even find the words to describe how we feel.
We often hear about goosebumps or shivers down the spine as examples of our natural instinct. But there are also positive physiological signs that could give us an insight into what feels good for us - what nourishes not just the body, but the heart, mind, and spirit as well. It could be a warmth in the chest, feeling refreshed or energized, or a sense of calm that we feel deep in our bones when we engage in activities that connect us with our authentic selves. These may be moments when thoughts such as “I’m in my element,” or “I’m feeling the flow” or “I’m in my happy place,” come to mind.
Whether it's through a mindfulness practice like meditation or simply being in nature, when we give ourselves time and space, we can begin to tune into our inner wisdom and discern what resonates with our being. Embracing our own rhythm involves tuning into our inner selves, understanding our unique preferences, and aligning our actions with what truly resonates with us
We may come to realize that our rhythm lies in the small yet profound experiences of our daily lives. It could be discovering support and community through laughter and conversations with friends gathered over a homemade meal. Or experiencing a surge of creativity while immersed in a favorite hobby. Or simply unwinding at the end of the day by pouring our energy and emotions into unabashedly singing along to a relatable song.
Our true rhythm reveals itself in moments of joy, in the quiet whispers of intuition guiding us towards our passions and what feels good for us. Like horses, we too can navigate life's terrain with grace and authenticity, trusting in our innate ability to discern what nurtures our wellbeing and propels us forward on our journey.
By embracing these moments of alignment, we deepen our connection to ourselves and honor the essence of who we are.
Horses follow their own rhythm in various ways, both physically and emotionally. Physically, horses have a natural gait and movement pattern that reflects their inner state and external environment. When they're relaxed and content, their movements tend to be fluid and rhythmic, reflecting a sense of ease and harmony. Conversely, if they're agitated or anxious, their movements may become tense, mirroring their emotional state.
Horses also have individual preferences and personalities that influence their behavior and responses. Some may enjoy a leisurely stroll while others may prefer a brisk trot or gallop. Their unique rhythms also extend to their interactions with humans and other animals, which can be observed through subtle body language and vocalizations.
Emotionally, horses are highly attuned to their surroundings and instincts. They possess an innate ability to sense danger or discomfort, prompting them to either approach or retreat from a situation accordingly. This sensitivity allows them to navigate their environment, trusting their instincts to guide them along their own rhythm.
Whether it's seeking shelter from a storm or standing quietly to experience a calming breeze, horses follow their own rhythm without hesitation, embodying a beautiful harmony between their inner essence and the world around them.
For us two-leggeds, following our own rhythm may not always be the easiest thing to do. Amid the hustle and bustle of modern life, it can be easy to become disconnected from our inner selves and the rhythms that truly nourish us. Sometimes, we face circumstances that keep us from recognizing what is emerging within ourselves. Or perhaps, we fall into the routine of our everyday lives that we don’t get the opportunity to check in with ourselves and quietly ask;
How does this feel for me?
For horses, responding to this question happens naturally, instantly, and instinctively. For us, It might take awhile to arrive at an answer, but sometimes, our bodies may tell us before we even find the words to describe how we feel.
We often hear about goosebumps or shivers down the spine as examples of our natural instinct. But there are also positive physiological signs that could give us an insight into what feels good for us - what nourishes not just the body, but the heart, mind, and spirit as well. It could be a warmth in the chest, feeling refreshed or energized, or a sense of calm that we feel deep in our bones when we engage in activities that connect us with our authentic selves. These may be moments when thoughts such as “I’m in my element,” or “I’m feeling the flow” or “I’m in my happy place,” come to mind.
Whether it's through a mindfulness practice like meditation or simply being in nature, when we give ourselves time and space, we can begin to tune into our inner wisdom and discern what resonates with our being. Embracing our own rhythm involves tuning into our inner selves, understanding our unique preferences, and aligning our actions with what truly resonates with us
We may come to realize that our rhythm lies in the small yet profound experiences of our daily lives. It could be discovering support and community through laughter and conversations with friends gathered over a homemade meal. Or experiencing a surge of creativity while immersed in a favorite hobby. Or simply unwinding at the end of the day by pouring our energy and emotions into unabashedly singing along to a relatable song.
Our true rhythm reveals itself in moments of joy, in the quiet whispers of intuition guiding us towards our passions and what feels good for us. Like horses, we too can navigate life's terrain with grace and authenticity, trusting in our innate ability to discern what nurtures our wellbeing and propels us forward on our journey.
By embracing these moments of alignment, we deepen our connection to ourselves and honor the essence of who we are.
