Meditating With Horses – Safety Instructions
The safety of both participants and horses is our highest priority. Please read and follow these instructions throughout your session.
Remaining Calm and Regulated
Maintain a calm, quiet and mindful presence at all times.
Horses are highly sensitive to human body language and emotional state. Remaining regulated helps both you and the horses feel safe.
If you begin to feel overwhelmed, anxious or emotionally dysregulated, quietly step away from the horses and allow yourself space until you feel settled again. Inform the facilitator if you need support.
Understanding Horse Energy Levels
During the session, the facilitator will explain the horse energy scale, ranging from:
You will be taught how to recognise these different states so you can make safe decisions about where to position yourself and how to interact with the horses.
Awareness Around Horses
Always know where the horses are in relation to you.
Stay aware of their movement and body language.
Avoid sudden movements, loud noises or shouting.
Follow all instructions given by the meditation facilitator immediately.
Never stand directly between two horses, as you may become caught in the middle of their interactions or social dynamics.
Walking Around Horses
Only walk behind a horse when the facilitator has indicated it is safe to do so, and only when the horse is at an energy level of 3 or below.
When passing behind a horse, keep one hand gently on the horse so it knows where you are.
Grooming and Physical Contact
Only groom a horse if it is clearly inviting you to do so. The facilitator will help you recognise these invitations.
Groom quietly, gently and mindfully.
Avoid sudden movements or pulling on the horse.
Never place your fingers inside a horse's mouth.
Do not place your face close to a horse's face unless the horse is standing quietly at an energy level of 3 or below and the facilitator has indicated it is appropriate. Otherwise, this proximity may be misinterpreted by the horse and create an unnecessary risk.
Food Around Horses
Please do not bring food into the paddock or attempt to feed the horses unless specifically instructed by the facilitator.
Food can increase excitement and competition between horses, raising their energy levels and potentially causing conflict within the herd.
Footing and Clothing
Be aware of uneven ground, mud, stones, tree roots and other trip hazards.
Ensure clothing is suitable for walking around horses.
Take care that long coats, scarves, loose clothing, or untied shoelaces do not create a trip hazard.
Walk carefully and avoid rushing, particularly when close to horses.
Foot Safety
Horses can accidentally stand on feet.
If this happens, do not pull your foot away. Instead, gently push into the horse's shoulder or body so it shifts its weight and steps off your foot.
Sitting or Lying Down
Horse Behaviour
Our horses have no history of biting or kicking people. However, all horses are large animals and can react unpredictably if startled or frightened. For this reason:
Treat every horse with respect.
Remain aware of your surroundings.
Respect the horses' personal space and each other's space.
Follow the facilitator's guidance at all times.
By participating in this experience, you agree to follow these safety instructions to help create a calm, safe and respectful environment for both people and horses.