Horse and Heart

This video explores the relationship between man, heart, and horse.

What is the gallop within? Many paths understand the horse and heart as one. Our roots stretch through time like threads, remembering the strength and allyship of this large, muscular animal—the expanse of its coat. Propelling us and offering centering and stillness. A field of energy that embraces and grounds. It is a gift to care for and protect our friends. Rather than controlling, we’ll hold space and invite connection. Our heart can retain its wildness and independence while being of service and calling us in.

7/19/26 Some North American tribal traditions and ancient Daoist practice in China (I draw from Zhuangzi, circa 4th c BCE/Warring States period) associate the heart with the horse. Modern-day equine therapy (therapy for humans involving horses) research illuminates the energetic, cognitive, and emotional benefits of horse-human relationships. I chose to focus on men for this project. Most people who use equine therapy are female (70-80%). Horse work is most supportive for cognitive disharmonies rather than emotional ones (dogs are more helpful for that). Our culture tends to crush the hearts of men at an early age-- 'toughen up', 'stop crying', 'don't be a wuss'; emotional abuse can alter brain structure and has cognitive impacts. Consensual groundwork with horses has been shown to improve cognitive health. I am a firm believer in neuroplasticity — we can transform our brains, much like our muscles. I am working on a companion artist's book, which will share more on this...stay tuned.

Learn about my healing practice here: https://brownbearherbs.com/pages/consultations

Thank you to the following organizations that helped support this project:

Open Signal Spring 2026 Cohort (Thank you, Melissa Salazar!) https://www.opensignalpdx.org/

Synth Library Portland https://www.synthlibraryportland.org/

and the Independent Publishing Resource Center! https://www.iprc.org/