Yoga in the Presence of Horses
To make the most of your 90-minute grounding journey, please review these tips and packing list to ensure your comfort and safety in our rustic barn setting.
1. What to Bring
- Yoga Mat: A standard yoga mat is perfect. Since we are in a rustic barn environment, you may want to bring an older mat or one that is easy to wipe down.
- Refillable Water Bottle: Stay hydrated! We recommend a bottle with a secure lid to keep dust and hay out.
- Small Towel: Useful for padding under knees or wiping away a bit of nature.
- Layers: Even in South Florida, the barn can be breezy or shaded. Bring a light sweatshirt or wrap for the initial breathing exercises and the final relaxation.
2. What to Wear
- Flexible Clothing: Wear comfortable yoga or athletic wear that allows for a full range of motion.
- Closed-Toe Shoes: For your safety around our equine partners, closed-toe shoes are required while walking through the barn and during any hands-on interaction. You may remove them once settled on your yoga mat.
- Minimal Jewelry: We recommend leaving dangling necklaces or loose bracelets at home to ensure they don’t get caught or distract the horses.
3. Arriving at the Barn
- Arrive Early: Please aim to arrive 10–15 minutes before class begins. This allows you to settle into the “barn time” pace and leave the distractions of the outside world behind.
- Silence Devices: To maintain the deeply grounding atmosphere for both participants and horses, please place your phone on silent or “Do Not Disturb” upon arrival.
4. Interacting with the Horses
No Experience Necessary: Whether you are a seasoned yogi or a first-timer, this class is designed for all levels. There are no expectations—only the invitation to be present.
Mindful Presence: Horses are highly sensitive to energy. As we begin our heart-focused breathing, try to release any “rushing” energy.
Respectful Space: While the horses are calm and present, always follow the instructor’s guidance regarding hands-on interaction to ensure a safe and respectful experience for everyone.
