I have a friend who runs an equine therapy center. I believe horses have saved her life several times and in several ways. It’s amazing how animals can see us in ways sometimes humans cannot. Thank you for sharing this with us and being vulnerable.
Carol, it was so amazing. There was no BS or judgement like you get with people. They just radiated pure love and could see past all my PTSD symptoms right down to my heart. Connecting that way was so beautiful.
So true. I had to overcome debilitating anxiety. When I finally realized there was going to be no magic pill to fix it, I knew I had to put in the work. I had always admired Eleanor Roosevelt and found her quote - "You must do the thing you think you cannot do." She's right, there is no way around, over, or under it - only through it. It was so very hard. But now that I am on the other side, oh was it worth it. Keep going, find a good psychiatrist, take the meds to keep your head above water so you have the energy to do the work.
Yes, the healing can be really painful but is so worth it. I still struggle in certain areas, but now I know why and have tools to make it better. That’s a lot more than I had 3 years ago when my anxiety was confusing and disturbing.
What a beautiful story, Glenna. I loved the image of the horses following you around, and this line in particular struck me: "I see you, you know." We all want to be seen for who we really are. I'm glad you were able to have that experience. Animals have a way of connecting with us that's often harder for people when we live behind a mask that's difficult to take off.
Thank you, Krista. You’re so right about connection with animals. We have a very emotional bulldog at home, and you can see her emotions by looking at her expressive face. She is a great comfort to me also.
What an incredible post, Glenna! I had no idea equine therapy existed. A friend founded a group for veterans and veterans' families (re PTSD issues that have complicated their lives) and I am forwarding on your essay. I think she'll find it helpful and an interesting way to approach issues on returning home after war. Thanks!
Yes, Jeanine! The place where I had horse therapy also has events for veterans. It works exceptionally well on PTSD. They had one therapist and one “life” coach guiding us and helping us process feelings. I think your friend should definitely go for it.
Great to hear, Glenna. I wrote her yesterday and attached your link. Her foundation, Hearts of Patriots, is based in northeastern OH. She founded it when her son-in-law came home after 2 Irag tours, with PTSD and TBI. His re-adjustment and head injuries affected family life, and she realized there was no resource for family spouse and family (there's barely any even for vets), so she decided to do something about it. As a dancer-choreopgrapher-founder of Ohio Dance Theatre, Oberlin, that she ran for 25 yrs before HoP, She wrote a ballet. It was performed 5 times in OH. Then she decided, with her daughter, the vet's wife, to found the organization, 10 yrs ago. It continues to grow--she has helped hundreds and hundreds of vets and families. She also wrote and directed (all self-taught) a film-doc on the ballet). When she gets back to me, I'll let you know. She's pretty much a one-woman (w/ her daughter-2) show, and works tirelessly a zillion hrs per day. I was recently in OH for a family event and we spent time together. She just received, a Very sizable grant and I am over the top happy for her. Now she can hire others!!!! Again, I loved your post!
I have a friend who runs an equine therapy center. I believe horses have saved her life several times and in several ways. It’s amazing how animals can see us in ways sometimes humans cannot. Thank you for sharing this with us and being vulnerable.
Thank you so much for reading it. They are truly magical animals.
It feels so significant and lovely that the horse recognized and was drawn to something in you. Such a wonderful story.
Carol, it was so amazing. There was no BS or judgement like you get with people. They just radiated pure love and could see past all my PTSD symptoms right down to my heart. Connecting that way was so beautiful.
I just want to put a cosmic hug around you and hold you tight. I'd gladly absorb some of your tension if it would help.
Lynda, that is so sweet of you. Believe me, I will take all the hugs I can get.
So true. I had to overcome debilitating anxiety. When I finally realized there was going to be no magic pill to fix it, I knew I had to put in the work. I had always admired Eleanor Roosevelt and found her quote - "You must do the thing you think you cannot do." She's right, there is no way around, over, or under it - only through it. It was so very hard. But now that I am on the other side, oh was it worth it. Keep going, find a good psychiatrist, take the meds to keep your head above water so you have the energy to do the work.
Yes, the healing can be really painful but is so worth it. I still struggle in certain areas, but now I know why and have tools to make it better. That’s a lot more than I had 3 years ago when my anxiety was confusing and disturbing.
What a beautiful story, Glenna. I loved the image of the horses following you around, and this line in particular struck me: "I see you, you know." We all want to be seen for who we really are. I'm glad you were able to have that experience. Animals have a way of connecting with us that's often harder for people when we live behind a mask that's difficult to take off.
Thank you, Krista. You’re so right about connection with animals. We have a very emotional bulldog at home, and you can see her emotions by looking at her expressive face. She is a great comfort to me also.
What an incredible post, Glenna! I had no idea equine therapy existed. A friend founded a group for veterans and veterans' families (re PTSD issues that have complicated their lives) and I am forwarding on your essay. I think she'll find it helpful and an interesting way to approach issues on returning home after war. Thanks!
Yes, Jeanine! The place where I had horse therapy also has events for veterans. It works exceptionally well on PTSD. They had one therapist and one “life” coach guiding us and helping us process feelings. I think your friend should definitely go for it.
Great to hear, Glenna. I wrote her yesterday and attached your link. Her foundation, Hearts of Patriots, is based in northeastern OH. She founded it when her son-in-law came home after 2 Irag tours, with PTSD and TBI. His re-adjustment and head injuries affected family life, and she realized there was no resource for family spouse and family (there's barely any even for vets), so she decided to do something about it. As a dancer-choreopgrapher-founder of Ohio Dance Theatre, Oberlin, that she ran for 25 yrs before HoP, She wrote a ballet. It was performed 5 times in OH. Then she decided, with her daughter, the vet's wife, to found the organization, 10 yrs ago. It continues to grow--she has helped hundreds and hundreds of vets and families. She also wrote and directed (all self-taught) a film-doc on the ballet). When she gets back to me, I'll let you know. She's pretty much a one-woman (w/ her daughter-2) show, and works tirelessly a zillion hrs per day. I was recently in OH for a family event and we spent time together. She just received, a Very sizable grant and I am over the top happy for her. Now she can hire others!!!! Again, I loved your post!