Today I have the pleasure of interviewing my lovely neighbor, Robyn Lawrence. Her book Hoofbeats & Heartbeats has recently been released. Congratulations, Robyn! How exciting for you. That’s quite an achievement, and thank you for joining me today.
Thank you for having me, and for featuring my book.
It sounds like you have dedicated many years to learning and helping both people and horses.
Yes, as a psychotherapist, I’m certified as a recreational therapist and a teacher for special needs middle school student. These skills have come into play over my years of volunteering at the nearby therapeutic facility, Hearts and Horses. I’m also a Reiki practitioner and am trained in equine massage therapy.
That’s an impressive list of accomplishments, (I bet your horses love spa day, lol). I understand before you wrote your book, you were also putting these skills to use in your EASE program. Tell us about that.
I initiated the EASE program with my equine facilitators at my own home in Northern Colorad,. EASE stands for Equine Assisted Self-Empowerment. This can be done in groups, or on an individual basis. For more information, please shoot me an e-mail.
Q: How did your decision to write Hoofbeats & Heartbeats, an interactive journal for self-discovery, come about…longtime idea or a sudden flash of inspiration.
A: I’d have to say it was a combination or both. My passion for horses stretches way back. Then, after a recent physical trauma of my own, I gained personal insight as to what this type of healing can do.
Seeing the increase in mental health issues for young adults, and the general decline in mental wellness of all ages, I felt a need to reach out. Trauma, physical or mental, is very personal, and effects people on many levels from life threatening to simply having a series “bad days”. If my learning and experience could help, I wanted to make it available to others.
Q: As far as readers, whom do you see as your target group.
A: Generally, the 11-19 age group, but that means emotionally, as well as chronologically. We are all learning as we grow, and many adults have found lessons in the book helpful too.
I really liked the way you brought the spirit of the horse and other animals into play. Nature and animals are so amazing if we take the time to look.
Q: In Hoofbeats & Heartbeats you tackle some weighty subjects such as past abuse, grief, bullying, and lack of confidence, but then you give people tools to heal and help deal with these situations.
A: Yes. In this chaotic world so many of us are burdened by some form or stress, and we often lack support or direction. The journal is meant to help ( especially young people) identify their emotions, which leads to empowerment.
Q: Can people work on this journal both individually, as well as in groups--perhaps with a facilitator.
A: Absolutely. Both the book and the EASE program can be approached in groups or on the individual level.
Q: What animals do you have now? How about a bit of a brag as to your past adventures and achievements showing horses.
A: At present, I have a great combination of two dogs, twenty chickens, three horse, and one terrific husband.
I showed Paint and Quarter horses for over twenty years, both Western and English style. And I was thrilled to place in the world show competition. So many great experiences, and several fellow competitors remain dear friends.
Q: What is the most important thing you would like readers to take away from Hoofbeats & Heartbeats.
A: You are enough, and you are not alone. Horses can help you become aware of your authentic self, while building trust in yourself. Understanding your emotions, empowers you.
Now for a fun question:
Q: What would you like to be for 48 hours—a rock star, butterfly, a tree, a ballerina, a soaring eagle…a horse! Why?
A: An eagle. I’m afraid of heights so the eagle might help me there! I would feel the power of freedom, and get a wonderful aerial view to broaden my focus and see the world from a different perspective.
Q: A brave choice, considering your fear of heights. Anything you would like to add?
A: During my research and writing process, my eighteen-year-old granddaughter and twenty-one-year-old grandson were so helpful with input from their point of view. It was such an unexpected opportunity for spending quality time with them.
To inquire about the EASE program or purchase books in bulk at a reduced rate, please e-mail Robyn at: rlaw46@hotmail.com
Blurb:
This interactive journal is a journey into the lessons we learn from horses that reflect our own inner voices. Each prompt, page, and lesson opens a doorway to a deeper self-discovery. Understanding what horses can reveal helps uncover personal clarity and empowerment toward becoming one's authentic self.
When life's disturbing circumstances create frustrating situation, sometimes we need a mirror to help create a new path, one to celebrate. All situations are opportunities for growth. Horse therapy is a process that teaches us how to understand patterns of behavior that no longer serve us. The changes you learn to incorporate help you become stronger, more resilient, and proud of who you are becoming.
Activities and lessons will engage you in the journey.
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2 comments:
I love horses. IMO, they're like dogs, in that each has his own unique personality and understands more than we humans think they do. Some are highly skilled and some are lazy, but like dogs, they love and want to be loved and can sense when something is wrong and offer comfort. It's heartwarming to see your friend has found a way to bring horse and human together to benefit both, to bring something positive to each of their lives. Thank you so much for sharing, Gini! And please wish your friend all the best from me and the group.
Oh thank you, my friend will be so excited to see her post, and your support will mean a great deal to her.
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