Horse Play

Recently, I had the opportunity to partake in tackling my fears – namely getting close and personal with a 1,500 pound horse – at Miraval Resort and Spa in Arizona. The renowned spa is set in the beautiful Santa Catalina mountains, about an hour’s drive from Tucson, where the luxurious environment emphasizes on innovative mind/body treatments and classes, and living well in each moment. Wyatt Webb’s Equine Experience is probably the most sought after program at Miraval, and I finally stepped up – literally- to a horse named Fred to challenge my learned behaviors, correct false beliefs, and rediscover my authentic self…I didn’t think I misplaced it, but you never know. Confronting your fears with cowboy therapy may seem strange for some, but the charismatic Webb introduced his Equine Experience to Miraval guests in 1991, using horses as a tool to break through his clients’ fear, doubt and self-loathing.

Working with Webb, you will learn how to reclaim your birthright to gain greater self awareness and experience personal growth. Horses read the energy of people and things they’re around, and they determine whether its safe or unsafe. Webb’s programs range from a 2.5 hour session- what I did – to a four-day immersion. Either way, participants will have to pick up their horses’ hooves and clean them, followed by brushing them, and finally walking them around. Webb, a therapist for 30 years, states that everything is set up for accountability. You’re attracted to what you need to learn, and although these horses have to be well-mannered and have to like people… that’s it. If they sense you’re being disingenuous, forget it. No hoof offering for you. By watching how people deal with the stress and difficulty involved in grooming these big, unfamiliar animals – believe me, I was panicked- Webb and his fellow guides can pinpoint the behaviors that need unlearning. As for me, Fred was a doll and did everything I asked of him- if I could only get a man to do that. Who knew I was capable of giving a horse a pedicure, a comb-out and a walk…and to think I pay people to do that for me. www.miravalresorts.com