In a world increasingly defined by digital connectivity and the relentless pace of modern life, there is a growing thirst for authentic, embodied healing. For Rachael Gibson, this quest has led to the creation of Heart of the Horse, a therapeutic sanctuary where the wisdom of horses meets the transformative potential of holistic practices. With a career spanning over two decades in the healing arts, Gibson’s work has taken a unique form: equine-assisted learning, a modality that taps into the innate, therapeutic power of horses to restore balance and clarity to the human spirit.

"Two of my main passions in life are healing and horses," Gibson shares, as she reflects on the journey that led her to establish Heart of the Horse. "I’ve been working in the healing sphere for over 20 years, and in 2018 I trained in Equine Assisted Learning. Ever since, I’ve been dreaming up creative ways to share the healing power of horses with others." But what exactly is equine-assisted learning, and how does it work? At the core of Gibson’s approach is respect for the horses themselves, whom she describes not as tools, but as teachers. The practice involves creating a safe, welcoming space where clients can engage with the horses in a non-riding, non-competitive context. "The horses work at liberty," Gibson explains, meaning they are not forced into interaction but invited to participate in their own way. "They get to choose if they want to work with a person or not." This autonomy is key, as it reflects the authenticity that the horses model for participants: to be present, to trust, and to act from a place of truth.

Equine-assisted learning can yield transformative benefits for those who participate. Clients often arrive with a range of personal struggles, from anxiety and depression to a general sense of disconnection from themselves.

“The horses act as a mirror,” Gibson explains. "They help us become aware of unconscious patterns and our way of relating. They teach us to be more embodied and less in our heads." Clients often report profound shifts in how they feel after just one session, with many describing a newfound sense of peace and lightness.

Gibson’s therapeutic work is bolstered by a range of complementary practices, including Kundalini Yoga, mindfulness, and reflexology. These modalities create a holistic framework that balances the body, mind, and spirit - an essential aspect of Heart of the Horse's offerings. "It’s not just about being with the horses; it’s about bringing everything together," says Gibson. "Healing is about more than just the mind. It’s about the body, the spirit, and creating space for everything to align."

The horses themselves, with their unique presence and wisdom, play an indispensable role in this process. "Calm, healthy horses can provide an emotional and sensory environment that is conducive to healing," Gibson notes. "They model authenticity, embodied presence, and help co-regulate our nervous system." Horses, with their remarkable sensitivity to energy and emotion, offer a kind of resonance that is unmatched by any human interaction. “Their heart field is five times greater than ours,” she continues. “Being in their presence is like a nervous system reset.”

One of the distinctive features of Heart of the Horse is its commitment to meeting participants where they are - emotionally, mentally, and physically. Gibson’s programs are highly individualized, with a focus on personal development and well-being. "Some offerings are on an individualised basis, and we tailor everything to their needs," she explains. “The signature experience is our three-day, two-night Healing with Horses retreat. It’s a deeply transformative program where people experience the power of horses over a longer period."

The retreats themselves are set in serene, natural surroundings, where participants are encouraged to connect with themselves and the horses in a way that is both gentle and profound. “People are often surprised by how much they open up during these retreats,” says Gibson. “It’s the combination of the horses, the natural setting, and the holistic practices that really facilitate deep healing.” One of her recent clients, Jackie Bruce, described the retreat experience as "a peaceful oasis, surrounded by nature, perfect for reflection and relaxation." For many, it is not just the connection with the horses that is transformative, but the connection with themselves.

Equine-assisted learning is, in many ways, a new frontier in the world of therapy. As Gibson points out, it’s a relatively young industry, one that can be difficult to navigate for those unfamiliar with its power. “The challenge is that people don’t always know to look for this kind of work,” she says. “It’s a niche, but a growing one.” To overcome this, Gibson has embraced modern tools like social media, particularly TikTok, where one of her videos went viral, reaching over 3 million views. “It’s amazing how many people are curious about the healing power of horses,” she says. “It’s been incredibly encouraging.”

Despite the challenges, Gibson remains steadfast in her mission. She is currently expanding Heart of the Horse to offer longer, more in-depth retreats starting in 2025, as well as publishing a book on her philosophy and the healing wisdom she channels from the horses themselves. "The horses have so much wisdom," she says with a smile. "I channel that wisdom, and it's been such a gift to share it with others." One of her favourite passages, channelled from Clover, one of her Clydesdales, is a poignant reminder of the transformative nature of the work: "We are like activation stations that connect people back to their own hearts."

The horses, through their innate wisdom, are catalysts for profound emotional breakthroughs. As Gibson’s work continues to evolve, so too does the understanding of the horses’ role in the healing process. Through them, participants experience more than just a moment of calm - they are given the tools to move through life with more authenticity, more presence, and more love. For Rachael Gibson and the horses of Heart of the Horse, this is just the beginning of a healing journey that promises to touch hearts and transform lives for years to come.

Heart of the Horse

Drummond North

@heartofthehorse

rachael@heartofthehorse.com.au

heartofthehorse.com.au

STORY BY MAHMOOD FAZAL

PHOTOS BY CHRIS TURNER