Horsemanship as Medicine: Lessons from Horses at the Door.
by Paul Henning, MD
In the quiet of the morning, a group of horses stands in front of a closed barn door, patiently waiting to be fed. Their posture tells a story—one of trust, anticipation, and an unyielding connection to the rhythms of life. For me, this image is a metaphor for the profound lessons horses teach us about healing, patience, and resilience. (This is the essence of Paul Henning MD’s horsemanship as medicine philosophy).
The Symbolism of the Closed Door
The closed barn door represents the unknown—a moment of pause before fulfillment. Horses, with their innate ability to live in the present, remind us to embrace these pauses in life. They don’t push or panic; they wait, trusting that their needs will soon be met. This principle is integral to the idea of horsemanship as medicine.
This simple act of waiting mirrors the healing journey for many of us. Whether it’s recovery from trauma, managing stress, or finding balance in life, the process often requires patience, trust, and the ability to remain grounded in the moment.
Horsemanship as a Path to Healing
Horsemanship is more than a practice; it’s a relationship. Horses are highly intuitive animals, capable of sensing human emotions and responding in ways that foster healing. Their presence alone can calm an anxious mind, and their interactions teach us critical life skills, including:
- Patience: Horses operate on their own timelines, encouraging us to slow down and be present.
- Trust: Building a bond with a horse requires consistency and genuine care.
- Resilience: Horses mirror our energy, teaching us to regulate our emotions and approach challenges with a steady hand.
The Closed Door in Medicine
As a physician, I’ve seen how the “closed door” moments in life—those times of waiting, uncertainty, or transition—can be transformative. Horsemanship, particularly equine-assisted therapy, provides a safe space for individuals to navigate these moments. (concepts of Paul Henning MD’s horsemanship as medicine).
For example:
- Trauma Survivors: Horses help individuals process emotions and rebuild trust in a non-judgmental environment.
- Leadership Development: Working with horses teaches leaders to communicate clearly and authentically, skills that are invaluable in high-pressure settings.
- Stress Management: The routine of caring for horses—feeding, grooming, and simply being present—offers a grounding experience that reduces stress and enhances emotional well-being.
Lessons from the Barn Door
When I reflect on the image of horses waiting at a closed door, I’m reminded of the importance of trust and timing in both horsemanship and medicine. The horses don’t doubt that the door will open; they simply wait, knowing that their needs will be met in due time.
This lesson is particularly relevant in today’s fast-paced world, where we often feel pressured to force outcomes or rush through challenges. Horses teach us to slow down, trust the process, and embrace the journey—even when the door is closed.
Closing Thoughts
Horsemanship as medicine is a powerful concept that blends the wisdom of nature with the science of healing. Whether you’re a trauma survivor, a leader seeking growth, or someone navigating life’s uncertainties, horses offer a unique path to clarity and resilience.
The next time you see a horse standing at a closed door, take a moment to reflect. In their quiet patience lies a profound lesson: sometimes, the most powerful healing happens not in the action, but in the waiting.
Contact Paul Henning, MD for more information about the Horsemanship as Medicine program.