By Patti Bartsch, M.A., Ph.D.
Naturally Unbridled LLC
Holistic Life & Wellness Coaching for Equestrian Women
When thinking holistically, most people consider the definition to include: body, mind, and spirit. I add another dimension to the holistic viewpoint, and that is to include the planet. After all, we are not on this planet we are of this planet and we cannot truly be in balance without it.
Our connection to the Earth is vital for our holistic health. Not only do we rely on her for nutrients and water but also energy and balance. Just as we are electrical beings, the Earth also carries an electrical charge. When we are out of balance physically, mentally, or emotionally, the Earth provides the resources and energy to restore that balance and bring harmony.
I believe that this is part of our attraction to horses. As we connect with horses, animals that are connected to the Earth, we become more balanced. Have you ever noticed that just being around horses can make headaches disappear, lower your blood pressure, or simply put you in a better mood? Countless people keep horses just to have horses; they never ride them. They like to watch, brush, and care for them. It brings them peace and balance. Others find this harmony from gardening, hiking, or other outdoor activities.
The Earth also provides us many tools for healing and I would argue that when are feeling out of sorts, we should always turn to Nature first. Herbal medicine has been practiced for as long as people and plants have inhabited the Earth. Animals in the wild or on the range will self-medicate and de-worm themselves by selecting the herbs they need instinctively. Some herbs, like dandelion, are cleansing. Ginger can settle an upset stomach, and chamomile (a plant in the daisy family) helps people to relax. Plants, like people, have different qualities that make them useful for different things. Just as you might turn to an accountant for help with your taxes or a plumber for help with your sink, there are herbs that specialize in different areas of health and wellness.
Think Outside the Ring! Your horse is only half of the equation!
Think of all of the things you do to make your horse happy and healthy. What do you do for yourself? This amazing home-study program by Patti Bartsch, Ph.D. of Naturally Unbridled Holistic Equestrain Coaching offers great solutions for busy equestrians to optimize their life, health, and performance in the saddle using simple, natural methods. If this were something that would help your horse, you would buy it. Wouldn’t you? Do something for yourself so that the two of you can be your best.  |
In addition to the physical effects of herbs, plants also offer energetic healing.
Aromatherapy, which utilizes the essential oils of plants, is a form of energy balancing where the vibrational energy of the plant, carried through the vapors of the essential oils, alters the energy of the person or animal exposed to them. Different oils have different characteristics and thus bring different results. These may be inhaled, used topically or internally but it is recommended that you consult someone trained in essential oils as these are quite powerful and can be harmful or toxic if used improperly.
The Earth nourishes us and in return, we must nourish the Earth. As pollution and environmental devastation continue to wound the planet, all of our holistic health is threatened. Taking simple steps every day to support the health of the Earth will help her to be in balance so that we can be in balance:
- Buy or grow local, sustainably produced food.
- Purchase products that were made or grown near you. If you live in New Hampshire buy potatoes from Maine, not from Idaho.
- Recycle. Join www.Freecycle.org so you can donate any usable items that you no longer want to someone who does want them. This reduces the amount of materials entering landfills and it helps people out. That’s a win-win!
When I’m stressed out, I do some deep breathing, go for a walk or spend time with my horses, and I eat a big, fresh salad. You thought I was going to say chocolate cake, didn’t you? If I can get a nice dose of sunshine, fresh air and horses, I usually feel better in no time. The salad feeds my body while everything else feeds my spirit and my mind can settle down.
When you are feeling out of balance – perhaps you are overwhelmed, sick, stressed out, or exhausted – you may find your cure in nature. Try taking some deep breaths, having a tall glass of water, and doing something outside in nature. You may also get help from a trained herbalist, aromatherapist, nutritionist, wellness coach, or other trained holistic professional.
The Earth has limitless abilities to bring healing through food, water, herbs, crystals, homeopathy, flower essences, and essential oils – to name a few. You can benefit from simply being in touch with the Earth; being out in Nature.
Part of the reason so many people get depressed in the winter is because they lose their relationship with the Earth by staying inside all day. It is vital to maintain some physical connection to the Earth in order to help you to be in balance. This may be as simple as to spend time petting your horses, weeding your garden, or walking your dog in the woods. A connection to the Earth, out in the fresh air and sunshine, will do wonders for the body, mind, and spirit.
Patti Bartsch, M.A., Ph.D. is a Certified Holistic Life & Wellness Coach who specializes in equestrian women. She is the author of “7 Steps to a Naturally Unbridled Life” and “100 Days, 100 Ways to a Happier, Healthier Life”. Patti supports equestrian women in achieving their ideal life and health using natural, holistic methods. She is a popular speaker and author and supports her global clientele via telephone or Skype consultations. For more information about Patti, her coaching products and services, and to download a free chapter from her most recent book, visit her website http://www.NaturallyUnbridled.com.
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