Peace Pony Experience

My boyfriend and I recently had a session with Gillian and her peace pony, Domino. With my 20 years of horse experience and his role as a dedicated “horsey boyfriend,” it was a meaningful experience for both of us.
Going in, we weren't entirely sure what to expect, but we knew that Gillian would likely guide us to discover a deeper part of ourselves—and she did just that!

 As we walked into Pine Knoll’s beautiful arena, we were greeted by Gillian, Domino, and an intriguing setup of cones, large balls, and poles. After spending some time getting to know Domino and him getting to know us, Gillian introduced our challenge: we had to work together as a team to lead Domino through the obstacles. Our horseman experience didn’t prove helpful, but what we learned went far beyond that.
 In all situations, find inner peace and let it guide you. Peace must always be at the forefront, even when you're on the brink of achieving your end goal. Ultimately, the end goal is not the main focus. Be aware of the energy around you and adjust your own energy to fit the situation. Horses (and people) are more sensitive than we might realize, and the type and intensity of the energy we project can make a significant difference. When working with others, make sure it’s truly a team effort. Be supportive and ready to adapt your roles as needed. Don’t be resigned to trying one specific thing. Be open to different methods. Through our experience with Domino and Gillian, we discovered valuable lessons about ourselves and life, learning that true growth involves finding inner peace and overcoming the barriers that obstruct it.

“Horses don’t lie! These beautiful animals are pure love, and they see into the depths of your soul. Working with Gillian and her ponies was awe-inspiring. I experienced more personal growth and development in one session with Gillian than over countless years of useless personal therapy. Gillian is an amazing facilitator. She is able to read the horses, and the client, and knows exactly when to “loosen and tighten the reigns” in guiding you along your soul’s journey.”

"I recently attended the Pine Knoll Institute for Integrated Horsemanship because I had heard of their unique program and I wanted to learn more about the impact and perspective Pine Knoll could give me and my equine companion a greater and deeper connection. The experience after coming back home and riding my Friesian in Dressage was perceptibly improved. Impressively, and logically after they explained it, riding doesn't start at the time one gets up on the mounting block. It starts with body discipline exercises both mentally and physically. I then had a unique experience to move on site to a mount called Harmony TheSchoolMaster. This mechanism was so close to the real thing (as I learned coming back home to ride my own horse) that my ride was smoother, better balanced and harmonious. Having the opportunity to have professionals scrutinize every detail of my riding balance and aid use gave me a real perspective of what I wasn't doing to help my balanced riding. I came from the exercise with muscle soreness and recalled muscle memory which showed me where I was not taking advantage of correct form. My riding and my equine partner connection is stronger. I intend to go back for more of the same care and attention from the staff at Pine Knoll Institute for Integrated Horsemanship next month, and I live on the border of New Jersey and Pennsylvania. I went in with an open mind, and had my expectations exceeded. Thanks to all of the professionals who take this integrated approach so seriously. It is real.”

What Would It Take To Be Living Your Best Life?

What would it take to be living your best life? This was the question I pondered as I looked at the invitation to attend the E3A workshop at Pine Knoll Farm in Lexington, Kentucky. My first thought was, “Well, I think I am living my best life”. My next thought, was “Well, if I am living my best life why not put my best foot forward and step into the opportunity to attend this workshop?” It sounds like fun! I phoned Gillian Vallis who was hosting the workshop with an eager desire to reserve a space. The first requirement after reserving my space was to complete a bit of homework which included the purchase of the Strengths Finder 2.0 book. I was also instructed to complete the online assessment which provided feedback on my top five strengths. The feedback was enlightening. I arrived at the workshop a few days later and encountered an even greater enlightenment. The facilitators of the workshop were gracious and implemented an exceptional job of facilitating. One of the best parts of the workshop was the opportunity to accept the unfolding awareness of collaborative team-building and receiving feedback from the very special equine facilitators. One of my favorite quotes which is written in “My Favorite Quote” Journal is, “Horses never lie”[i]. This quote was the harmony of the musical chords which created a symphony of learning throughout the workshop. The equine facilitators did their job of living their best life and offered the special bonus of assisting the human participants with a new awareness of how to live their best lives as well.